Voter List Dispute: Political Parties Failed to Raise Objections on Time, Says Election Commission

The Bihar voter list dispute has sparked nationwide tension, with the Election Commission (EC) now defending its role. According to the EC, political parties were involved at every stage of preparing the electoral roll, yet they failed to raise timely objections regarding errors or omissions. This statement indirectly dismisses the allegations raised by opposition parties.

The matter is already under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court, where a petition has been filed alleging that nearly 6.5 million (65 lakh) names were removed from the voter list during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. The apex court has directed the Commission to make the list of excluded voters public. The EC is expected to hold a press conference on Sunday to address the issue.

On Saturday, while speaking to the media, the EC clarified that booth-level officers and political party representatives were equally involved in the revision process. However, no parties flagged concerns during the designated period. The Commission stressed that despite this, parties are now questioning its role, raising doubts only after the process concluded.

Meanwhile, opposition parties have strongly criticized the move, calling it an attempt to undermine democratic rights. They allege that the large-scale deletion of names amounts to disenfranchisement and could have serious consequences for free and fair elections. The exclusion of such a huge number of voters has already triggered unrest in Bihar’s political landscape.

Political analysts suggest that the Commission’s clarification may only fuel the controversy further. According to the opposition, had the EC exercised greater responsibility, such a massive number of exclusions would not have occurred. On the other hand, the ruling camp has backed the Commission, arguing that opposition parties should have acted more responsibly during the revision process.

The dispute is now resonating beyond Bihar, dominating national political debates. Experts believe that the Supreme Court’s upcoming decision could shape the future of voter list revision procedures across India.

For now, all eyes are on the EC’s press briefing scheduled for Sunday, where the Commission’s official explanation is expected to take center stage in political discussions.