Supreme Court Questions ECI on Voter Registration Process
The Supreme Court scrutinizes the Election Commission's directive for deleted voters to file Form 6 despite being on the 2026 rolls.
Supreme Court raises concerns over the requirement for deleted voters to fill Form 6.
Advocates argue that many voters were not served enumeration forms, complicating their registration.
ECI agrees to consider extending deadlines and creating a residual category for voters.
In a significant development regarding the electoral rolls in Delhi, the Supreme Court on Wednesday challenged the Election Commission of India (ECI) on its requirement for voters deleted from the draft roll to submit Form 6 for re-registration. This questioning arose during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, where the Court highlighted that many of these individuals were already listed on the 2026 electoral rolls.
The Court noted that Form 6 is intended for first-time voters, who must declare that they have never voted before. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana expressed concern that many voters might not have received enumeration forms due to address changes or temporary relocations. They questioned why these individuals were not given the option to fill out Form 8, which is used to update address details, instead of being compelled to submit Form 6.
During the hearing, Senior Advocate Dama Seshadri Naidu, representing the ECI, acknowledged the issues raised by the bench and indicated that the ECI would explore potential remedies, including extending the registration deadline. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioners, pointed out that out of 47 lakh deleted voters, a significant majority had been marked as permanently shifted or absent, many of whom had never received the necessary forms to register.
The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate concerns of voter registration. The Supreme Court's scrutiny emphasizes the importance of ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in the electoral process, particularly in a diverse and populous region like Delhi. The Court's suggestions, including the creation of a residual category for those who have temporarily moved, could facilitate better access to the electoral process for these individuals.
Looking ahead, the Supreme Court will reconvene in two weeks to further discuss the ECI's proposals and the ongoing challenges faced by deleted voters. The Court's emphasis on the right to vote as a vital civic duty underscores the need for a fair and accessible electoral process, ensuring that all voices are heard in the democratic framework.
