Context:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) informed the Supreme Court that its power to verify citizenship for inclusion or exclusion from electoral rolls flows directly from the Constitution, amid political controversy during Assam’s special electoral roll revision.
Key Highlights:
- Constitutional Position
- The ECI asserted that its authority is inherent under the Constitution, particularly linked to Article 324.
- The Citizenship Act, 1955, and Foreigners Act, 1946, do not curtail the Commission’s powers in voter roll preparation.
- Judicial Proceedings
- A Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is hearing petitions challenging the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
- The issue gained prominence amid allegations of “vote theft” in Assam.
- Assam-Specific Context
- Assam is undergoing a Special Revision due to its unique history with the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
- The process includes house-to-house physical verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
- Unlike SIR elsewhere, Assam’s revision does not involve document verification.
- Political Allegations & Responses
- The Congress party in Assam alleged inclusion of “temporary voters” from other States.
- The Leader of Opposition raised concerns with the Chief Election Commissioner.
- The Assam Chief Minister asked political parties to follow established grievance procedures.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Article 324 – powers of the Election Commission.
- Electoral Rolls – preparation and revision.
- Distinction between citizenship determination and voter eligibility.
- Role of BLOs.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Significance:
- Protects the integrity of electoral democracy.
- Concerns:
- Risk of politicisation and regional sensitivities.
- Way Forward:
- Transparent procedures and uniform safeguards.
- Robust grievance redressal and judicial oversight.
UPSC Relevance:
GS 2 – Polity, Electoral Processes | Prelims & Mains