The Supreme Court of India has scheduled October 7, 2025, as the date for the final hearing on petitions that challenge the validity of the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. The ruling is expected to have a nationwide impact, as the Court has clarified that its judgment on Bihar will apply to Pan-India SIR exercises.
Highlights of SC Rule on Bihar Voter List
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Hearing Date | October 7, 2025 |
| Case | Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar |
| Bench | Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi |
| Controversy | Use of Aadhaar, risk of disenfranchising voters |
| SC Clarification | Aadhaar not proof of citizenship |
| Pan-India Impact | Ruling on Bihar SIR will apply nationwide |
Supreme Court’s Observations
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi reiterated that the Election Commission of India (ECI), being a constitutional body, is presumed to act within the framework of law. However, the judges also noted that if any illegality is found in the SIR process, the exercise would be struck down.
The bench emphasized that the Court would not provide “piecemeal opinions” and that similar voter list revisions across India cannot be halted by the Court at this stage.
Bihar SIR Controversy
The Bihar SIR has been under scrutiny for several months. Critics argue that the revision:
- May disenfranchise voters.
- Introduces confusion by including Aadhaar as a supporting document.
- Raises the sensitive question of whether Aadhaar can be considered proof of citizenship.
These concerns have fueled widespread debate both inside and outside the courtroom.
Aadhaar and Electoral Rolls
On September 8, 2025, the Supreme Court directed the ECI to include Aadhaar as the 12th prescribed document for the Bihar revision. However, the Court clarified that Aadhaar cannot be treated as proof of citizenship.
The Commission was instructed to verify the authenticity of Aadhaar when submitted by electors seeking inclusion in the voter rolls. At the same time, the Court issued notice on a plea seeking recall of its earlier order, signaling that the debate over Aadhaar’s role in the electoral process is far from over.
Wider Implications
The Court’s statement that its ruling on Bihar will apply to all of India makes this case a test for the legal framework governing electoral roll revisions. The outcome of the October 7 hearing is likely to shape how future voter list revisions are conducted across the country.