Supreme Court intervenes on ECI's voter exclusion process in Bihar
The Supreme Court ordered the Election Commission of India (ECI) to publish names and reasons for 65 lakh voters excluded from Bihar's draft electoral roll, highlighting significant anomalies and the ECI's non-transparent methods. This intervention aims to ensure natural justice for affected voters, especially given the disproportionate exclusion of women. The Court also mandated the ECI to accept Aadhaar cards as identity documents for objections, underscoring the need for greater transparency and adherence to natural justice principles in voter enrolment, which is crucial for upholding universal adult franchise in Indian democracy.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court intervened, ordering the ECI to publish details of 65 lakh excluded voters from Bihar's electoral roll.
- The ECI's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise was criticized for its non-transparent methods and lack of reasons for exclusions.
- Significant anomalies were found, including a higher exclusion rate for women despite more men migrating.
- The Court mandated the ECI to accept Aadhaar cards as identity documents for filing objections.
- This intervention highlights the need for greater transparency and adherence to natural justice principles in voter enrolment.
Exam Facts
- Supreme Court ordered ECI to publish names of 65 lakh voters excluded from Bihar's draft electoral roll.
- ECI's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise was under scrutiny.
- Aadhaar card is now to be accepted as an identity document for objections.
- Universal adult franchise is a cornerstone of India's democracy.
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