Mass voter deletions leave millions stranded across Bihar, Bengal

Electoral authorities in Bihar and West Bengal have deleted the names of millions of registered voters during a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, creating a crisis that threatens participation in the 2025 and 2026 Assembly elections. The deletions have affected approximately 47 lakh voters in Bihar and nearly 91 lakh in West Bengal, according to official data.

Those whose names were removed from the rolls have been thrust into an arduous process to restore their voting eligibility. Many affected citizens report being caught in a labyrinth of documentation requirements, multiple applications, and repeated demands to prove their citizenship and residential status. The situation has left thousands uncertain about whether they will be able to exercise their franchise in upcoming elections.

The deletions appear to have stemmed from the routine revision exercise meant to maintain accurate electoral records by removing deceased voters and duplicate entries. However, rights activists and affected citizens contend that the process has been conducted without adequate safeguards, resulting in the deletion of eligible voters who were never informed of the action or given an opportunity to contest the removal.

Electoral officials have stated that affected voters can apply for re-registration, but the process remains unclear and cumbersome for many. With elections looming, the affected populations face a race against time to complete the necessary paperwork and secure their place on the electoral rolls once more.