New Delhi— The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) recent directive to conduct a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar. The organization has raised concerns over what it terms an “arbitrary” order that could lead to the disenfranchisement of millions of voters in the state, reported the Mint.
According to reports, the Supreme Court has taken up the matter, as ADR alleges that the ECI’s move may result in a “mass disenfranchisement,” potentially stripping large sections of the electorate of their right to vote ahead of the upcoming Bihar elections.
As part of the SIR exercise, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) have already completed their first visit to nearly 1.5 crore households in Bihar. The ECI reported that over 87% of Enumeration Forms—6,86,17,932 out of a total of 7,89,69,844 electors as of June 24—have been distributed so far.
Officials clarified that the remaining households could be either locked, belong to deceased electors, or be homes of migrants or those currently traveling. The BLOs are scheduled to visit each household three times during the process to ensure maximum coverage.
The forms can also be downloaded from the ECI portal or accessed via the ECINET App, allowing electors to upload filled forms directly. Moreover, 1,54,977 Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties are actively supporting the exercise.
Political party participation includes 52,689 BLAs from the BJP, 47,504 from RJD, 34,669 from JD(U), and 16,500 from INC, among others. Each BLA is allowed to submit up to 50 certified forms per day.
Verification of the forms will begin vigorously on August 2, 2025, following the publication of the draft electoral rolls. Claims and objections from the public and political parties will be accepted starting the same day. The final electoral rolls are expected to be published on September 30, 2025. Post-publication, appeals can be filed with the District Magistrates (DMs) and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).
The controversy over the ECI directive has also sparked political reactions. The INDIA bloc has accused the government of engaging in “Votebandi,” claiming that the move undermines democratic principles and targets specific voter groups.
The outcome of the petition could have significant implications for the Bihar Assembly elections, with voter access and fair representation at the heart of the issue.
