Only one ID needed from 11 options, says top court in voter list revision case
The Supreme Court today clarified that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bihar is not an anti-voter exercise, countering concerns raised in petitions challenging the Election Commission’s verification process.
Hearing on Bihar Voter List Revision
- A bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard arguments from Senior Advocate Abhishek Singhvi, who alleged that the EC’s document verification could exclude voters.
- Justice Bagchi acknowledged concerns over Aadhaar-related exclusions but noted, “The point on number of documents is voter-friendly… Look at the number of documents by which you can prove citizenship.”
Only One Document Needed
- Justice Kant clarified that asking for all 11 identification documents would be exclusionary.
- However, since the EC is requiring only one out of the 11 valid IDs, the process is inclusive and not against voters.
Background
- The Special Intensive Revision aims to update and verify Bihar’s electoral rolls ahead of upcoming elections.
- Valid IDs include Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, PAN card, and other approved government documents.
The Supreme Court’s clarification aims to reassure voters that the Bihar voter list revision process will remain inclusive, with multiple ID options ensuring no eligible citizen is left out.
Also Read : Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Faces Notice Over Double Voter ID Row
