Supreme Court Directs Election Commission to Accept Aadhaar as Identity Proof for Electoral Roll Revision
The Supreme Court of India has directed the Election Commission (EC) to include Aadhaar as the 12th 'indicative' document for identity proof during the special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. A Bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi clarified that while Aadhaar can be used to verify identity or residence, it cannot be treated as evidence of Indian citizenship. The court noted that despite previous directives, booth-level officers were refusing to accept Aadhaar. The EC is now tasked with publicizing this order to ensure voters can use Aadhaar for filing claims or objections during the revision process.
Key Points
- Aadhaar is now officially recognized as the 12th indicative document for identity proof in Bihar's electoral roll revision.
- The Supreme Court emphasized that Aadhaar serves as proof of identity or residence but is not proof of Indian citizenship.
- The Election Commission retains the authority to verify the authenticity and genuineness of any Aadhaar document submitted.
- The court ordered the EC to issue clear instructions to all field officials, including Booth-Level Officers (BLOs), to prevent further refusals.
Exam Facts
- Bench: Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi.
- Aadhaar is the 12th 'indicative' document for identity proof in this specific electoral context.
- Relevant Statute: Representation of the People Act.
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