Bihar Voter List Row: Moitra, Jha, and NGOs Petition SC Against ECI’s SIR Directive

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Manoj Jha, and several NGOs, including the Association for Democratic Reforms and People’s Union for Civil Liberties, filed petitions in the Supreme Court to challenge the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bihar. The June 24 order, aimed at updating electoral rolls before the state’s upcoming assembly elections, has sparked controversy, with petitioners alleging it risks disenfranchising millions and undermines democratic principles.

Bihar Voter List Revision in SC

The petitioners argue that the SIR’s stringent document verification process, which excludes common IDs like Aadhaar and ration cards, could exclude eligible voters, particularly from marginalized communities such as Muslims, Dalits, and migrant workers. Moitra has claimed the process resembles a “backdoor NRC,” potentially affecting nearly eight crore voters in Bihar. Jha echoed these concerns, stating that the rushed 25-day timeline for compliance is unreasonable and violates the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960. The NGOs further contend that the SIR contradicts a recent Special Summary Revision conducted between October 2024 and January 2025, questioning its necessity and timing.

Bihar Voter Roll Row

The challenge extends beyond Bihar, with Moitra alleging that the ECI plans to replicate the SIR in West Bengal ahead of its 2026 elections. The petitioners assert that the order violates constitutional rights under Articles 14, 19, 21, 325, and 326, as well as the Representation of People Act, 1950. They seek not only to quash the Bihar directive but also to prevent similar orders in other states, warning of a threat to free and fair elections. The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for July 10, intensifying the spotlight on the ECI’s actions.

A Legal Battle Unfolds

As Bihar gears up for its assembly polls, the SIR controversy has ignited a fierce debate over electoral integrity. The opposition’s legal challenge underscores concerns about voter suppression and institutional bias. The Supreme Court’s verdict will be pivotal in shaping the democratic process, with far-reaching implications for India’s electoral landscape.