Aadhaar, voter ID & ration cards can’t be considered for SIR: ECI
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently rejected the Supreme Court’s suggestion to accept Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as standalone proof of voter eligibility during the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral roll. The ECI has made it clear that these documents cannot be considered as proof of voter eligibility in the ongoing SIR process.
The ECI’s decision comes as a relief to many who were worried about the potential implications of the Supreme Court’s suggestion. The poll body has reiterated that the proof of identity required for SIR is limited to the documents specified in the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the rules framed thereunder.
The ECI’s clarification has been issued in response to a query from a newspaper regarding the Supreme Court’s suggestion to accept Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as proof of voter eligibility. The poll body has stated that these documents are not prescribed in the electoral rules and regulations, and therefore, cannot be accepted as proof of identity for the purpose of SIR.
The ECI has also made it clear that a person’s citizenship will not terminate on account of not being part of the electoral rolls. The poll body has stated that the electoral roll is only a register of voters and does not affect an individual’s citizenship. This clarification is significant, as there were concerns that the Supreme Court’s suggestion could have led to individuals being declared non-citizens if they were not part of the electoral rolls.
The ECI’s decision is a welcome move, as it ensures that the electoral process remains free and fair. The poll body’s clarification has also put to rest the rumors and misconceptions surrounding the Supreme Court’s suggestion.
The importance of SIR lies in the fact that it is a critical process that helps to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the electoral rolls. The process involves a thorough verification of the existing electoral rolls and the addition of new voters who are eligible to vote. The ECI’s decision to reject the Supreme Court’s suggestion ensures that the SIR process remains focused on its primary objective of ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the electoral rolls.
The ECI’s clarification also highlights the importance of adhering to the electoral rules and regulations. The poll body’s decision is a reminder that the electoral process is governed by specific rules and regulations, and that any deviation from these rules can have serious consequences.
In conclusion, the ECI’s decision to reject the Supreme Court’s suggestion to accept Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as standalone proof of voter eligibility is a welcome move. The poll body’s clarification has put to rest the rumors and misconceptions surrounding the Supreme Court’s suggestion and has ensured that the electoral process remains free and fair.
