Bombay HC Slams ECI Over Voter Deletions in SIR, Cites Rule on Roll

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday questioned the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the deletion of voter names during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, pointing to a specific rule governing the process. The Bench observed that if a voter has changed residence, the ECI cannot ask the voter to submit the enumeration form, as per the rule on rolls.

The court's remarks came during a hearing on petitions challenging the ECI's voter roll revision exercise. The Bench highlighted that the ECI's demand for enumeration forms from voters who have shifted residence may contravene established electoral rules. The ECI has been conducting SIR in several states, leading to large-scale deletions of voter names, which have been criticized by opposition parties and civil society groups.

The Bombay High Court's intervention adds to the growing scrutiny of the ECI's SIR process. The court's observations could have significant implications for the ongoing revision and may prompt the ECI to revise its procedures. The next hearing in the case is expected to address these concerns further, as the ECI may be directed to clarify its stance on the enumeration form requirement.