Supreme Court Presses Election Commission on Voter Deletions
The Supreme Court of India directed the Election Commission on Thursday to provide detailed information about voter deletions. The court specifically asked how many voters have been removed from electoral rolls on the grounds of suspected citizenship during the SIR drive.
Court Seeks Ground Reality of Deletion Process
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi expressed concern about the information provided by the Election Commission. The bench noted that the EC has only furnished data on three categories of voter deletions so far. These categories include deletions due to death, duplication, and migration of voters.
The Supreme Court bench made its position clear during the hearing. "We want the ground reality of the deletion process," the bench stated emphatically. The justices then posed a direct question to the Election Commission's representatives. "Has there been any category of deletion on the ground of suspected citizenship?"
Election Commission's Response and Limitations
Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi appeared before the court representing the Election Commission. Dwivedi responded to the bench's questions by stating he would need to seek instructions on the matter. He promised to inform the court after gathering the necessary information.
Dwivedi also clarified the Election Commission's authority regarding citizenship matters. He explained that the EC's role in determining citizenship is limited to voter registration purposes only. The Election Commission cannot deport individuals or decide whether someone has a valid visa to stay in India, according to Dwivedi's submission.
Petitioner Raises Fundamental Question
Advocate Prashant Bhushan represented the petitioner NGO Association for Democratic Reforms during the hearing. Bhushan acknowledged that citizenship serves as a prerequisite for voting rights in India. However, he raised a crucial legal question before the court.
The core issue, according to Bhushan, revolves around the Election Commission's authority. He questioned whether the poll panel possesses any legal power to determine citizenship at all. This fundamental question remains central to the ongoing legal proceedings.
The Supreme Court's intervention highlights growing concerns about electoral transparency. The court's demand for comprehensive data reflects its commitment to ensuring fair electoral practices across the country.
