Supreme Court Mandates Aadhaar for Voter Verification in Bihar Electoral Roll Revision
The Supreme Court of India has ordered the Election Commission of India (ECI) to include Aadhaar as one of the 12 valid documents for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral rolls. This intervention follows the exclusion of over 65 lakh electors from the draft rolls. The ECI had previously argued that Aadhaar was proof of residency rather than citizenship, but the Court dismissed this, noting that other accepted documents also do not conclusively prove citizenship. The ruling emphasizes that procedural rigidity must not disenfranchise eligible citizens, particularly marginalized groups, women, and migrant workers who rely heavily on Aadhaar for identification.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court ruled that Aadhaar must be accepted as a valid document for voter verification to ensure inclusivity.
- The ECI's previous exclusion of Aadhaar led to the removal of 65 lakh potential voters from Bihar's draft rolls.
- Statistical analysis revealed disproportionate removal of women and migrant workers during the revision process.
- The ruling sets a national precedent, urging the ECI to prioritize accuracy and human rights over procedural haste.
Exam Facts
- Aadhaar is held by nearly 90% of Bihar's population compared to passports held by only 2%.
- Over 65 lakh electors were initially excluded from the draft roll during the SIR exercise.
- Aadhaar is now officially recognized as the 12th valid document for voter verification in this context.
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