Bihar: The Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive has led to a noticeable drop in voter numbers across the state, with Muslim-majority and border districts experiencing the steepest declines. Data from 38 districts shows a worrying trend for communities in Seemanchal and border regions.
Gopalganj recorded the highest overall decline at 12.13 percent, falling from 20.56 lakh voters in June to 18.07 lakh in the final rolls. Other affected districts include Kishanganj and Purnia, with declines of 9.69 percent and 8.41 percent respectively. Kishanganj, a Muslim-majority district with 68 percent Muslim population, faced the largest proportional reduction. Purnia, Katihar, and Araria also reported declines ranging between 5.5 to 8 percent.
Border districts, including Madhubani, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Supaul, and West Champaran, saw drops over five percent. Even districts with moderate Muslim populations, such as Bhagalpur and East Champaran, experienced reductions between seven and eight percent.
The Election Commission stated the SIR aimed to remove illegal immigrants, but sources indicate very few deletions were due to inability to prove citizenship. This raises questions about the purpose and impact of the drive on minority communities.
Some districts, however, recorded minor additions between draft and final rolls. Purnia saw a 4.16 percent increase, while Katihar gained 1.24 percent. Analysts warn that these figures could influence electoral strategies and highlight concerns about voter suppression and demographic targeting.
