The Supreme Court has issued a stern warning regarding the Bihar SIR, emphasizing the potential for the entire process to be invalidated. The court’s comments came during a Monday hearing, where it affirmed its inability to offer a partial ruling on the Bihar SIR case. Any final judgment rendered in this matter would have nationwide implications.
The court acknowledged the Election Commission of India’s adherence to legal and regulatory requirements within Bihar. Furthermore, it highlighted that if irregularities are discovered in any phase of the Election Commission’s procedures concerning the Bihar SIR, the entire process would be subject to cancellation.
This warning is particularly noteworthy given the Election Commission’s recent meeting on September 10th, which preceded an announcement suggesting a nationwide voter list revision campaign in anticipation of upcoming assembly elections in five states next year.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing on the Bihar SIR for October 7th, having heard arguments from both the prosecution and the defense. This hearing is expected to be followed by an announcement regarding the Bihar election dates.
Additionally, the Supreme Court has taken action on a petition concerning the inclusion of Aadhaar cards as the 12th designated document within the Bihar SIR. Following the filing of a petition on September 8th, the court has issued a notice in response. During the September 8th hearing, the Supreme Court clarified that Aadhaar cards do not serve as definitive proof of citizenship. The court also stated the Election Commission’s ability to verify the authenticity of Aadhaar cards submitted by voters for inclusion in the electoral register.