Bihar poll roll revision: ECI's duty to verify citizenship for electoral rolls
The article clarifies that Indian citizenship is a fundamental prerequisite for being an elector and legislator, refuting objections to the Election Commission of India's (ECI) verification of citizenship during Bihar electoral roll revisions. It emphasizes that the ECI's constitutional duty under Article 324 is to ensure accurate electoral rolls, and non-citizens are disqualified from voting and holding legislative office. The author highlights that mere possession of an Aadhaar card does not confer citizenship, as per Section 9 of The Aadhaar Act, 2016. The article stresses that any inclusion of non-citizens in electoral rolls is null and void, and the ECI must investigate complaints regarding such inclusions.
Key Points
- Indian citizenship is a fundamental requirement for both voting and holding legislative office.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) has a constitutional duty to verify citizenship during electoral roll revisions.
- Non-citizens are disqualified from being registered as voters, and their names must be struck off if erroneously included.
- The Aadhaar card, as per Section 9 of The Aadhaar Act, 2016, does not serve as proof of citizenship or domicile.
- Political objections to citizenship verification during electoral roll revisions demonstrate a lack of understanding of the Constitution and electoral laws.
Exam Facts
- Article 324 of the Constitution vests superintendence, direction, and control of electoral roll preparation and elections in the ECI.
- Article 326 states that elections are based on adult suffrage for citizens aged 18 and above.
- Section 16(1)(a) of The Representation of The People Act, 1950, disqualifies non-citizens from voter registration.
- Section 9 of The Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, states Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship.
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