Supreme Court to Hear Bihar Voter List Case July 10
On July 10, 2025, the Supreme Court will hear a crucial case about Bihar’s ongoing voter list revision. A bench led by Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice Joymalya Bagchi will examine over 10 petitions for and against the process.
What Is the SIR in Bihar?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) launched a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll on June 24. The drive aims to update Bihar’s voter records before the upcoming elections. Citizens must submit proof of residence and complete forms by July 25. The final draft roll is due on August 1.
Critics argue the process is rushed and unfair. Many fear it could disenfranchise poor, migrant, and minority voters.
Several opposition leaders, activists, and NGOs challenged the SIR in court. The petitioners include:
- Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra
- Congress leader K.C. Venugopal
- RJD MP Manoj Jha
- Activists Yogendra Yadav and Arshad Ajmal
- NGOs such as Association for Democratic Reforms and PUCL
They claim the revision violates the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and Rule 21A of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960.
Concerns Over Voter Rights
The petitions say the revision creates unnecessary pressure on poor voters. Many people may not have the documents needed to prove their residence. If they miss the deadline, their names may vanish from the voter list.
Manoj Jha accused the ECI of acting without consulting political parties. He warned that the revision targets Muslim, Dalit, and migrant communities in Bihar.
What the Election Commission Says
The ECI defended the move. It reported that 87% of voters had already received enumeration forms. Officials say the process ensures clean and updated rolls for free and fair elections.
The Commission will likely explain its rationale before the Supreme Court during the hearing.
Support for the Revision
Not everyone opposes the SIR. Advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay filed a petition in its favor. He called for similar revisions across India.
He cited illegal immigration, forced religious conversions, and high population growth as reasons. “Demography is destiny,” he said. He believes only genuine citizens should be allowed to vote in Indian elections.
Why This Hearing Matters
The July 10 hearing could decide whether to pause the SIR. Petitioners are urging the court to stay the June 24 notification. They fear irreversible harm if names are removed before the court gives its verdict.
This case will set a precedent. It could affect how voter list revisions happen across the country in the future.
Conclusion
The court faces a critical choice. It must protect democratic rights while ensuring a fair electoral process. Millions of voters could be affected by its decision.
India watches closely as Justices Dhulia and Bagchi prepare to rule on this landmark case.