Date Line: PATNA, BIHAR – The Election Commission of India (EC) has issued notices to approximately 300,000 individuals in Bihar as part of a state-wide intensive voter list revision drive, citing “suspected citizenship.” The action comes after a significant number of these individuals failed to submit required documents during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls.
Investigations conducted by the EC have raised doubts about the citizenship of these individuals, with a majority believed to be citizens of neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal. According to sources within the Election Commission, most of the notices have been sent to residents in border districts including East Champaran, West Champaran, Madhubani, Kishanganj, Purnia, Katihar, Araria, and Supaul. These districts share boundaries with Nepal or are located in close proximity to the border.
The SIR exercise is a comprehensive effort to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the voter list. The individuals who have received notices are now required to submit proof of their Indian citizenship to the authorities for verification. The move highlights the EC’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that only eligible citizens are included in the electoral rolls.
