The Supreme Court of India will today resume its crucial hearing on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, a process that has drawn nationwide attention due to its connection with the use of Aadhaar as a valid identity proof for voter registration. The case, seen as significant for the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, could set a precedent for electoral processes in other poll-bound states as well.

Background of the Case

The Election Commission of India (ECI) had initiated the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar to ensure that the state’s electoral rolls were updated ahead of the elections. As part of this process, the Supreme Court directed the ECI to accept Aadhaar cards as valid identity proof for inclusion in the voter rolls. This decision was welcomed by some, as Aadhaar offers a widespread and standardised identification mechanism. However, it has also faced criticism and legal challenges due to concerns about privacy, exclusion, and the risk of disenfranchisement.

The case is being heard by a Bench headed by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, who took charge earlier this year. The matter has already been heard extensively, and today’s proceedings are expected to focus on whether Aadhaar-based verification complies with constitutional principles of free and fair elections.

Why Aadhaar is at the Centre

The government and the ECI have long argued that linking Aadhaar to voter ID can prevent duplication and bogus voting, thereby strengthening the electoral process. Bihar, being a large state with diverse demographics and significant migration, presents unique challenges in maintaining accurate voter lists. Aadhaar linkage, according to its supporters, could eliminate fake entries and improve efficiency in voter identification.

On the other hand, critics and civil rights groups warn of the risks of Aadhaar-based exclusions. They argue that technical errors, mismatched data, and issues of accessibility could disenfranchise genuine voters, especially among vulnerable sections like daily-wage workers, migrants, and rural populations. The Supreme Court is thus tasked with balancing the promise of technological efficiency against the protection of constitutional rights.

Previous Court Directions

Earlier in this case, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission to accept Aadhaar as one of the proofs for voter inclusion during the SIR exercise. However, the Court also sought detailed assurances from the ECI about data privacy, storage, and non-discriminatory practices.

The Court emphasised that while Aadhaar can be used as a proof of identity, it should not become a barrier for those who do not possess it or cannot readily access it. Alternative identity proofs must remain available to ensure universal inclusion in the electoral rolls.

Today’s Hearing

Today’s proceedings are expected to continue along these lines, with detailed arguments on whether Aadhaar should be made a mandatory or optional document for electoral roll inclusion. The Bench is likely to question both the ECI and the Union Government about safeguards in place to prevent exclusionary outcomes.

The Court may also explore whether Aadhaar-based verification could inadvertently allow state surveillance of voter data, raising fresh concerns about privacy in the electoral system.

Implications for Bihar Elections

Bihar is scheduled to go to the polls in late 2025, and the accuracy and inclusivity of its voter rolls will be critical. The outcome of this Supreme Court case could directly shape how millions of voters in Bihar will be enrolled and verified. If Aadhaar is given primacy, the ECI may move forward with large-scale Aadhaar-seeding of electoral rolls. If the Court imposes restrictions, the Commission will need to adopt alternative methods while ensuring inclusivity.

Political observers believe that the verdict could also influence campaign strategies and voter mobilization in Bihar. The use of Aadhaar-based identification may reduce instances of impersonation but could also create logistical hurdles for those without updated Aadhaar details.

National Impact

Beyond Bihar, this case could have nationwide implications. Many states are expected to go for elections in the coming years, and the Supreme Court’s stance on Aadhaar’s role in the electoral system will provide clarity to both the Election Commission and state governments. It may also revive debates about whether Aadhaar should be linked to electoral reforms at a broader level.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s continuation of the Bihar SIR hearing today is not just about a technical exercise in electoral rolls. It is about striking the balance between efficiency and inclusivity, technology and privacy, and security and fairness in India’s democratic processes.

As the Court resumes hearings, all eyes will be on how the Bench addresses the delicate issue of Aadhaar’s role in elections. The verdict, when pronounced, could set the tone for electoral reforms across the country and directly impact the way India votes in the future.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Karbonsteel Engineering, Taurian MPS, L. T. Elevator, Galaxy Medicare, Airfloa Rail Technology, Dev Accelerator, Jay Ambe Supermarkets, Urban Company, Shringar House of Mangalsutra, .

The Current active IPO are Nilachal Carbo Metalicks, Krupalu Metals, Vashishtha Luxury Fashion, Sharvaya Metals, Vigor Plast India, Austere Systems.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.