Aadhaar, Voter ID & Ration Cards Can’t be Considered for SIR: ECI
In a recent development, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has rejected the Supreme Court’s suggestion to accept Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as standalone proof of voter eligibility in the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral roll. The poll body has made it clear that these documents cannot be considered as proof of eligibility for the SIR, which is a crucial exercise to ensure the accuracy and completeness of electoral rolls.
The ECI’s decision comes as a significant setback to those who were hoping to use these documents as proof of their eligibility to vote. The SIR exercise is aimed at updating the electoral rolls and ensuring that all eligible citizens are included in the electoral rolls. However, the ECI has made it clear that the process will only be carried out in accordance with the existing guidelines and rules.
The ECI’s decision is based on the fact that the existing guidelines and rules do not permit the use of Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as standalone proof of eligibility. The poll body has emphasized that the SIR exercise is a complex process that requires a thorough verification of documents and other evidence to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the electoral rolls.
In addition to rejecting the use of these documents, 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. This means that even if a person is not registered to vote, their citizenship will not be affected. The ECI has emphasized that the right to citizenship is a fundamental right, and it cannot be terminated on account of any technical deficiency or error.
The ECI’s decision has been welcomed by many, who have expressed concerns over the misuse of Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards. Many have argued that these documents can be easily forged or manipulated, and that their use as proof of eligibility could lead to fraudulent activities.
However, others have criticized the ECI’s decision, arguing that it is a step backward in the fight against corruption and electoral fraud. They have argued that the use of these documents as proof of eligibility could have helped to reduce the incidence of fake voters and electoral fraud.
Despite the controversy surrounding the ECI’s decision, it is clear that the poll body has taken a cautious approach to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. The ECI has emphasized the importance of verifying documents and other evidence to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the electoral rolls.
In conclusion, the ECI’s decision to reject the use of Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as standalone proof of eligibility for the SIR exercise is a significant development in the ongoing electoral roll update process. While the decision may have been welcomed by some, it has also been criticized by others who argue that it is a step backward in the fight against corruption and electoral fraud. Despite this, the ECI’s emphasis on verifying documents and other evidence is a crucial step towards ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
