Why in News: The Election Commission has completed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar ahead of Assembly elections and plans to extend it nationwide under Section 21 of the RPA, 1950, to ensure clean and updated voter lists.
Introduction
- Clean and accurate electoral rolls are essential for free and fair elections in India.
- The Election Commission of India (ECI) conducts periodic revisions under Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1950.
- These revisions ensure inclusion of eligible citizens and removal of ineligible or duplicate entries.
Context
- The ECI recently completed a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, ahead of Assembly elections.
- The process will be extended to other States in phases.
- The Supreme Court permitted the use of Aadhaar as identity proof during the revision.
Legal Framework
- Section 21 of the RPA, 1950 empowers the ECI to prepare and revise electoral rolls.
- The Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 (RER) prescribe detailed procedures and forms for registration, correction, and objection.
Various Electoral Forms
- Form 6 – For inclusion of a new voter or change of constituency.
- Form 6A – For registration of Overseas (NRI) Electors.
- Form 7 – To raise objections or request deletion of a name.
- Form 8 – For correction of personal details in the roll.
- Form 8A – For transposition of a voter within the same constituency.
Process and Citizen’s Role
- Citizens must verify their details in draft rolls published during SIR.
- They should fill relevant forms for inclusion, correction, or objection.
- Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) verify claims and publish final rolls.
- Citizens and civil society must assist marginalised voters in the process.
Significance and Way Forward
- Clean electoral rolls uphold electoral integrity and public trust.
- The ECI should adopt a phased, transparent, and citizen-friendly schedule.
- Integration with Aadhaar (with privacy safeguards), digital services, and awareness campaigns will ensure inclusiveness.
Conclusion:
“Clean rolls, fair polls” — a transparent and updated electoral list forms the bedrock of India’s democratic legitimacy.
UPSC Relevance
GS Paper II – Governance: Role of Election Commission, Representation of the People Act, and Electoral Reforms.
GS Paper II – Polity: Democratic processes, citizens’ participation, and institutional accountability.
Mains Practice Question
Q. Clean and updated electoral rolls form the foundation of free and fair elections. In light of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, discuss the challenges and reforms needed to ensure accuracy and inclusiveness in India’s voter lists.