Bihar SIR row: SC asks EC to accept Aadhaar, voter ID

Says en masse inclusion; not en masse exclusion’ should be the aim

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday advised the Election Commission of India (ECI) to adopt an "en masse inclusion" approach in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, cautioning against widespread exclusions in a politically sensitive election year.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi underscored the validity of Aadhaar and voter ID cards, instructing the poll body to continue accepting them during the revision process. "You continue accepting these documents," Justice Kant said. "Aadhaar and voter cards have some sanctity and have presumption of genuineness. As far as ration cards are concerned, we can say they can be forged easily."

The top court also turned down a plea to stay the publication of the draft rolls, which are set for release on August 1. The final list is due by September 30. The bench clarified it had not granted interim relief earlier and reaffirmed its July 10 order allowing the continuation of the SIR process, where it had permitted use of Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards.