Bihar Special Intensive Revision: Day before deadline, Election Commission says about 7 lakh forms not received

Patna: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has raised concern over the low response to Bihar’s Special Intensive Revision drive. With just a day left before the deadline, officials reported that around 7 lakh voter forms remain pending. The Commission has urged all eligible voters to submit their applications without further delay.

7 Lakh Forms Yet to Be Submitted

The Special Intensive Revision aims to update and correct Bihar’s electoral rolls before upcoming elections. Despite awareness campaigns, the submission rate is lower than expected. Officials said that most pending forms include:

  • Form 6: For adding names of new voters.
  • Form 7: For objections to existing entries.
  • Form 8: For corrections to voter details.
  • Form 8A: For shifting names within the same constituency.

Several districts, especially rural ones, recorded higher backlogs due to limited awareness and last-minute filing.

EC Calls for Immediate Action

The ECI has appealed to citizens to act quickly. “We urge every eligible voter to submit forms now. Late applications will not be accepted,” said a senior official.

Local authorities have opened voter help centers and special camps in towns and villages. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are visiting households to assist people with filling and submitting the forms.

Why the Drive Matters

This Bihar Special Intensive Revision forms part of a nationwide effort to ensure accurate voter lists ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. A clean voter roll is essential for transparent and fair elections. It prevents errors, stops duplicate entries, and ensures that every eligible citizen can vote.

In Bihar, voter turnout plays a decisive role in elections. Political analysts say updated rolls will directly affect election results and strategies for major parties.

Online Options for Voters

The ECI is promoting online applications through the National Voters’ Service Portal (NVSP). Citizens can apply, track applications, or correct details without visiting government offices.

After the deadline, officials will start verification. They will cross-check the submitted forms and carry out door-to-door checks where details are unclear. People who fail to apply before the deadline may miss inclusion in the final voter list.

Awareness Campaigns Continue

To boost participation, the Commission launched multiple campaigns. Local radio, newspapers, and social media channels are carrying messages about voter registration. Information vans are moving across districts to spread awareness.

Still, many young and first-time voters remain unaware of the steps required. Rural areas face the most challenges due to connectivity and lack of resources. Local self-government bodies and BLOs are working hard to close this gap.

Last-Day Rush Expected

With only 24 hours left, officials expect a surge in submissions. BLOs and voter centers will remain open for extended hours. Citizens can also contact Election Registration Offices (EROs) or call helplines for assistance.

Authorities warn that delays may leave genuine voters excluded. “This is the final opportunity to ensure your name is on the list,” said another ECI officer.

Political Reactions

Political parties are watching the revision closely. They have urged supporters to register before the deadline. Leaders from major parties have stressed that accurate voter rolls strengthen democracy and ensure fair elections.

Final Deadline Reminder

The deadline for submitting Forms 6, 7, 8, and 8A ends tomorrow. Those who fail to register or correct details will need to wait for the next revision cycle.

The ECI urges everyone to take advantage of online and offline options before time runs out. The next 24 hours are crucial to ensure participation in the electoral process.