Explained: Intensive Electoral Roll Update in Bihar Amid NRC Concerns

Quick Summary

• Special Intensive Revision (SIR) Initiated: Election Commission of India (ECI) has commenced SIR for Bihar electoral rolls ahead of state elections to ensure inclusivity and accuracy.
• Timeline: Draft electoral rolls to be published on August 1, objections entertained until September 1, and final rolls released on September 30.
• Verification process: Includes door-to-door verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs), polling station restructuring, and claims disposal. Citizens listed in the 2003 roll need no extra documentation; newer voters must provide specific documents like birth certificates but not commonly used IDs like Aadhaar or voter cards.
• Concerns Raised: Opposition parties fear exclusion of marginalized groups due to stringent documentation requirements amidst low birth registration rates in Bihar.Allegations include potential bias and rushed execution close to election dates.
• Supreme Court Intervention: SC is hearing petitions challenging document requirements; ECI assured flexibility but faces scrutiny over its discretion powers with Electoral Registration Officers.

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