The inclusion of two Pakistani women in Bihar’s voter list has sparked a controversy, drawing attention to potential irregularities in the electoral process. The women, who reportedly entered India decades ago, were identified during a verification process conducted by the Ministry of Home Affairs to identify foreign nationals exceeding their visa validity. The investigation revealed that voter ID cards were issued to Imrana Khanam and Firdousia Khanam in Bhagalpur.
The women’s names were not only present on the voter list but were also verified during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process ahead of the 2025 assembly elections, culminating in the issuance of voter ID cards. The BLO responsible for the verification stated that the election department had notified them, acting upon an official communication from the Home Ministry on August 11.
The details surrounding the women’s arrival in India are also under scrutiny. Firdousia arrived on January 19, 1956, with a three-month visa, while Imrana’s visa was valid for three years. The Bhagalpur district administration has commenced proceedings, with notices scheduled to be sent to both women, requiring them to present relevant documentation to support their claims.
Both women reside at Bhikanpur Gumti No. 3 Tank Lane under the jurisdiction of the Ishakchak police station. In Imrana Khatoon’s case, Farzana Khatoon received the district administration’s order, and the process to remove Imrana’s name has been initiated.
Imrana Khanam, when interviewed, provided insight into the verification process. She confirmed that she verified the women during SIR, using the passport numbers provided by the department. She reported that Imrana Khanam is an elderly Pakistani woman who is unwell, and the department has initiated steps to remove her name. The notice from the Home Ministry was received on August 11.
Ahead of the forthcoming assembly elections, Bihar initiated a Special Intensive Revision of its voter list in July. The initial phase involved the distribution and collection of enumeration forms. The Election Commission of India (ECI) confirmed that out of 7.89 crore registered voters in Bihar as of June 24, forms from 7.24 crore voters were received by July 25.