New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has assured the Supreme Court that no voter in election-bound Bihar will have their name removed from the draft electoral roll without following due process. The assurance comes amid concerns raised over the reported removal of nearly 65 lakh names from the rolls.
Responding to a petition filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), the ECI submitted a fresh affidavit outlining its policy. It stated that any proposed deletion of a voter’s name would be carried out only after three key steps — prior written notice to the concerned individual, an opportunity for the voter to present their case, and a formal, well-reasoned order issued by the competent authority.
“As a matter of policy and in strict adherence to the principles of natural justice, no deletion shall be undertaken without prior notice, adequate opportunity to be heard, and a speaking order by the competent authority,” the Commission noted in its affidavit.
The poll body emphasized that comprehensive measures are in place to ensure no eligible voter is excluded. It also confirmed that individuals lacking required documents will receive assistance to complete their registration. Out of Bihar’s total 7.89 crore registered electors, over 7.24 crore have already submitted their enumeration forms.
The ECI highlighted that both printed and digital versions of the draft electoral roll, released on August 1, have been shared with all political parties. Citizens can review the list online and at designated locations until September 1, during which objections or corrections can be filed.
To safeguard voter rights, the Commission pointed to a two-tier appeals process, allowing individuals to challenge any adverse action. In addition, an extensive voter outreach programme is underway, including multiple visits by Booth Level Officers (BLOs), community meetings, and large-scale awareness campaigns aimed at increasing participation.
Clarifying procedural aspects, the ECI said current rules do not mandate the publication of a separate list of names deleted from the draft rolls.
