EC Uncovers Nepali, Bangladeshi, and Myanmar Citizens in Bihar's Electoral Rolls

National News: Several shocking revelations have emerged during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list conducted by the Election Commission in Bihar. In the door-to-door survey carried out by Booth Level Officers (BLOs), it was found that a significant number of individuals from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar are residing in various parts of the state, and many of them have been illegally included in the voter list.

This issue has taken a sensitive turn as it raises serious concerns about the transparency and security of India's electoral process. The Election Commission is now actively investigating the circumstances and the documents under which these foreign nationals were added to the electoral rolls.

According to the Commission, this situation not only undermines the credibility of the electoral system but also poses a major threat to internal security and national integrity.

What is Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a campaign during which the voter list is verified through a comprehensive door-to-door survey across the state. Booth Level Officers visit households to verify whether registered voters reside at the given address, whether their names are accurately listed, and whether there are any fraudulent entries in the list.

During this verification process, officers encountered a large number of suspected foreign nationals. Upon document inspection, the citizenship of many individuals was found to be questionable.

What to Do if Your Name is Missing?

If your name is missing from the draft voter list to be published on August 1, 2025, there's no need to panic. You can file an appeal at the following levels:

• Voter Registration Officer (ERO)
• District Election Officer (DEO)
• Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the State

While filing an appeal, applicants must provide valid supporting documents. The Election Commission has clarified that the final voter list will be published on September 30, 2025, after incorporating all amendments and verified appeals.

Documents Required for Claiming Citizenship or Inclusion

To prove Indian citizenship or to add your name to the voter list, the following documents will be accepted:

• Educational certificate issued by a recognized board or university
• Caste certificate
• National Register of Citizens (NRC) entry
• Passport
• Family register issued by the state government or a local municipal body
• Any document issued by a bank, post office, or LIC before July 1, 1987
• Forest Rights Certificate
• Identity card of a regular government employee or pensioner
• Permanent Residence Certificate
• Government-issued proof of house or land allotment
• Birth certificate issued by a competent authority

Political Reactions & Demands for Investigation

Following these revelations, political circles have been stirred. Several parties have demanded that the Election Commission order a probe by the CBI or the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to determine whether this is part of a larger organized conspiracy.

Some political analysts also argue that the misuse of electoral rolls in border districts could influence the electoral outcome. Particularly in regions bordering Nepal and Bangladesh, illegal migrants may have been added to the voter list using forged documents, raising serious questions about electoral integrity.