The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to simplify the voter verification process in the upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. According to ECI officials, more than half of the electorate in most states may not have to submit any documents to cast their vote. This is because their names are already included in the last SIR conducted between 2002 and 2004, which will act as the baseline for the current revision.
For example, in Bihar, around 60% of voters listed in the 2003 electoral roll will be exempt from providing proof of birth or residence. Only the remaining 40%, who were not part of the previous list, will need to submit one of the prescribed documents, such as Aadhaar cards, passports, school certificates, or family registers, to establish their eligibility.
Currently, voters must provide one of 11 specified documents to verify their identity at polling stations. The proposed changes aim to reduce this requirement, allowing many voters to authenticate themselves without presenting physical documents. This move is designed to lower barriers to voting and boost participation, especially among marginalized groups and first-time voters.
The ECI has instructed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to make previous electoral rolls accessible online to help with the verification process. This initiative is part of the commission’s broader effort to modernize electoral practices, making voting more inclusive, efficient, and accessible.
The nationwide SIR exercise is expected to begin soon, with completion aimed before the end of the year. The Election Commission remains committed to maintaining accurate and up-to-date electoral rolls, thereby ensuring the integrity and inclusiveness of India’s democratic process.
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