On September 8, 2025, the Supreme Court of India made a pivotal ruling, directing the Election Commission of India (ECI) to accept Aadhaar as the 12th identity document for revising Bihar’s voter list. This decision, delivered by Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, addresses concerns raised by petitioners, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), about the exclusion of Aadhaar in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. As Bihar gears up for its 2025 assembly elections, this ruling aims to ensure inclusive voter registration while maintaining electoral integrity.
- Key Points:
- Supreme Court approves Aadhaar for Bihar voter list revision on September 8, 2025.
- Decision responds to petitions challenging ECI’s exclusion of Aadhaar.
- Aadhaar accepted as proof of identity, not citizenship, for voter registration.
Background: The Bihar Voter List Controversy
The ECI’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR), launched on June 24, 2025, aimed to update Bihar’s voter list by removing ineligible entries and adding qualified voters. However, the initial requirement of one of 11 specified documents—excluding Aadhaar—sparked controversy. Petitioners argued that this restriction risked disenfranchising millions, particularly underprivileged groups, as Aadhaar is widely held. The Supreme Court, in earlier hearings, questioned the ECI’s stance, noting that even caste certificates derived from Aadhaar were accepted, creating an inconsistency.
- Key Points:
- SIR began June 24, 2025, to update Bihar’s voter list for elections.
- ECI initially excluded Aadhaar, limiting acceptable documents to 11.
- Petitioners highlighted risk of mass exclusion, especially for marginalized communities.
Supreme Court’s Ruling: Aadhaar as a Valid Document
The Supreme Court’s order clarifies that Aadhaar can be used as proof of identity for voter registration in Bihar’s SIR, marking it as the 12th acceptable document. However, the court emphasized that Aadhaar does not constitute proof of citizenship, aligning with Section 9 of the Aadhaar Act. The ECI has been directed to verify the authenticity of Aadhaar cards submitted, ensuring a robust process. The ruling also mandates the ECI to publicize the list of 65 lakh deleted voters with reasons, via newspapers, Doordarshan, social media, and websites, to enable challenges using Aadhaar.
- Key Points:
- Aadhaar accepted as the 12th identity document for voter list inclusion.
- Not valid as proof of citizenship; ECI to verify Aadhaar authenticity.
- List of 65 lakh deleted voters to be publicized for transparency.
Addressing Exclusion Concerns: A Push for Inclusivity
The Supreme Court’s decision responds to fears of large-scale voter exclusion, with petitioners like the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) arguing that excluding Aadhaar disadvantaged marginalized groups. The court, in a July 10 hearing, had urged the ECI to consider Aadhaar, EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card), and ration cards, noting their widespread availability. By allowing Aadhaar, the ruling ensures that voters, especially those without alternative documents, can challenge deletions or apply for inclusion, fostering a more inclusive electoral process.
- Key Points:
- Ruling addresses concerns of unfair voter exclusion in Bihar.
- Aadhaar, EPIC, and ration cards urged for broader accessibility.
- Aims to protect voting rights of underprivileged communities.
ECI’s Response and Implementation
The ECI, initially resistant, cited that Aadhaar is not a conclusive proof of citizenship, a stance supported by Article 326 of the Constitution, which empowers the ECI to verify voter eligibility. However, following the court’s directive, the ECI has committed to accepting Aadhaar for the Bihar SIR, with officials tasked to verify its genuineness. The court’s insistence on daily hearings and a deadline of September 1, 2025, for completing claims reflects the urgency of ensuring a fair voter list before the October-November 2025 elections.
- Key Points:
- ECI to accept Aadhaar after initial resistance, with verification protocols.
- Supreme Court mandates daily hearings for swift resolution.
- September 1 deadline set for voter list claims and corrections.
Political and Social Implications
The ruling has sparked significant debate, with political parties like the RJD and civil society groups highlighting the risk of disenfranchising communities that traditionally support them. The court criticized political parties for inadequate support to affected voters, urging booth-level agents to assist proactively. The decision to publicize the deleted voter list ensures transparency, allowing citizens to challenge exclusions online or with Aadhaar, reinforcing electoral integrity and democratic participation.
- Key Points:
- Court reprimands parties for inaction in supporting deleted voters.
- Publicizing deleted voter list enhances transparency.
- Strengthens democratic participation ahead of Bihar elections.
Conclusion: A Victory for Voter Inclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision to allow Aadhaar as an identity document for Bihar’s voter list revision is a landmark step toward inclusive elections. By addressing the risk of mass exclusions and mandating transparency, the ruling ensures that millions of voters, particularly from marginalized sections, can exercise their voting rights in the 2025 Bihar assembly elections. As the ECI implements this directive, the focus on Aadhaar verification and public awareness sets a precedent for fair electoral practices across India, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to a robust and inclusive democracy.
