ECI Data on Bihar Sparks Concerns Over Disproportionate Voter Deletions Among Women

Rapid Summary

• The Election Commission (EC) conducted a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, leading to the deletion of approximately 65 lakh voters.
• Around 7 lakh more women than men were removed from the rolls compared to the voter list as of January 1,2025.
• Women significantly outnumbered men in the “permanently shifted” category of exclusions,wiht younger age groups (18-49 years) being disproportionately affected.
• Analysis shows that 62.6% of those listed under “permanently shifted” were women compared to 37.4% men, particularly among those aged under 40.
• Past migration data from the Census suggests higher rates of migration for marriage among women and for employment among men-potential contributors to these trends.
• Key questions remain on weather migrants, especially excluded migrant women, are being systematically enrolled in their new locations or risk permanent disenfranchisement.

link: read more

Indian Opinion Analysis
The recent deletions in Bihar’s electoral roll raise critical concerns about equitable voter portrayal and enfranchisement across demographics. While female voters appear disproportionately affected due to factors like migration following marriage, concerns arise over systemic challenges such as transitioning their voter registrations across state lines effectively.

This development highlights potential procedural gaps and underscores a need for robust mechanisms ensuring voter inclusivity nationwide-particularly for migrant populations vulnerable to exclusion based on changes in residency status. With over seven lakh additional female deletions noted this year alone and no direct correlation found between illiteracy and dropout rates, revisiting how enumerations address women’s mobility is essential.

Ultimately, this situation prompts broader reflection on safeguarding democratic participation amidst societal dynamics like internal migrations while minimizing risks of disenfranchisement across gender lines.

Link: Read more