RJD Moves Supreme Court Against EC’s Special Voter Roll Revision in Bihar.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), led by Tejashwi Yadav, has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) decision to carry out a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Bihar ahead of the assembly elections scheduled later this year.
The plea was filed by RJD MP Manoj Jha, questioning the timing and scope of the revision. The party alleges that the move, announced on June 24, lacks transparency and could result in the exclusion of eligible voters.
ECI Stands Firm on Revision Process
The Election Commission has defended its decision, stating that there is “no change” in existing instructions and the revision is being conducted smoothly across Bihar. The commission says the exercise aims to clean up the electoral rolls and ensure accuracy by identifying and removing ineligible voters.
As per official estimates, the revision targets over eight crore voters and is scheduled to conclude by July 25. The draft electoral rolls are expected to be published on August 1.
Opposition Alleges Bias and Targeting
Opposition leaders have strongly opposed the move, arguing that such a revision is being carried out only in Bihar, unlike in 2003 when a similar exercise was conducted nationwide.
Tejashwi Yadav has questioned the selective application of the revision, suggesting it could be an attempt to suppress votes in opposition strongholds. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge went further, calling it a “BJP-RSS conspiracy” to disenfranchise Dalits and marginalized groups.
State Election Officials Respond
In response to the criticism, Bihar’s Chief Electoral Officer clarified on social media that the process is being implemented as per ECI guidelines. The CEO emphasized that existing electors will remain on the rolls if they submit enumeration forms, and will be allowed to provide documentation even after the initial submission.
“All activities are in line with the ECI’s order dated June 24,” the CEO stated in a public post.
TMC’s Mahua Moitra Joins Legal Fight
Adding to the challenge, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has also moved the Supreme Court, alleging that the revision targets young, first-time voters in Bihar and could extend to West Bengal, which holds elections in 2026.
“They’ve started with Bihar. Bengal may be next,” Moitra said, calling on the court to intervene before voter rights are compromised.
Flashpoint Ahead of Polls
As Bihar prepares for elections, the special revision of voter rolls has become a politically charged issue. With multiple parties now seeking judicial intervention, the Supreme Court’s response could have a major bearing on the electoral landscape in the months to come.
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