15 Lakh Forms Pending, 1 Lakh Untraceable Ahead of Bihar SIR Deadline: ECI

Fast Summary

• Around 15 lakh Bihar voters have yet to submit their enumeration forms for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with a July 25 deadline approaching.
• another one lakh voters remain untraceable, according to Election Commission of India (ECI) data.
• The SIR exercise has covered over 98.01% of electors so far. Data reveals 20 lakh electors have died, 28 lakh have permanently migrated, and seven lakh are enrolled in multiple places.
• lists of incorrect inclusions and non-submitted forms were shared with Booth Level Agents from major political parties on June 20.
• Electors temporarily residing outside Bihar can submit their enumeration forms digitally via https://electors.eci.gov.in or the ecinet mobile app, or send signed printouts through WhatsApp or family members.
• The draft electoral roll will be published on August 1.Errors can be contested by political parties or individuals until September 1.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Special intensive Revision in Bihar highlights critical efforts by the Election Commission to ensure transparency and accuracy in voter rolls ahead of upcoming Assembly elections.While achieving over 98% coverage is commendable,challenges such as unsubmitted enumeration forms and untraceable voters underscore systemic issues requiring attention-particularly given the large numbers who are either deceased or migrated. Simplified digital submission methods aim to mitigate logistical barriers for out-of-state electors but may still leave gaps due to technological access disparities.

With objections allowed post-draft publication until September 1, this process sets a crucial precedent for verifying fair democratic depiction at local levels. Though,efficient coordination among political parties’ Booth Level Agents and clarity in interaction remains critical toward closing remaining gaps sustainably.

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