New Delhi (National Times): The Supreme Court on Monday once again urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to consider allowing Aadhaar cards and Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) as valid documents for establishing the identity of voters during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
The apex court, while hearing a petition related to the electoral roll revision process, reiterated the importance of ensuring a transparent and inclusive verification process. It asked the Election Commission to review its existing guidelines and explore the feasibility of accepting both Aadhaar and EPIC as admissible identity documents for the purpose.
The bench also instructed all parties involved in the case to indicate the amount of time they would need to complete their arguments. Based on the responses, the court said it would decide and announce the next date of hearing on Tuesday.
The Special Intensive Revision is part of the Election Commission’s drive to update and verify the electoral rolls ahead of upcoming elections in Bihar. Several concerns have been raised regarding the exclusion of certain identity documents, prompting the present litigation and judicial intervention.
While the ECI has traditionally relied on house-to-house verification and multiple forms of ID, petitioners in the case argue that recognizing Aadhaar and EPIC would streamline the process, prevent duplication, and ensure no genuine voter is left out.
The matter remains under judicial consideration, and the Supreme Court is expected to provide further directions after tomorrow’s listing.
