Mass voter exclusion would destroy constitutional order: SC judge

In a strong statement on electoral integrity, Supreme Court Justice Bhuyan cautioned against mass exclusion of voters from the electoral register, emphasizing that no justification—however compelling the argument—can legitimize such action. The judge stressed that wholesale voter disenfranchisement strikes at the heart of the constitutional order that underpins democratic governance in India.

The remarks underscore the judiciary's commitment to protecting voting rights as a fundamental aspect of constitutional democracy. Justice Bhuyan's intervention comes as electoral management authorities periodically undertake exercises to purge electoral rolls of duplicate or deceased voters, raising concerns about potential exclusion of legitimate voters.

The Supreme Court's position reflects the constitutional principle that the right to vote is central to democratic participation and cannot be arbitrarily curtailed. The judge's statement serves as a reminder that while electoral rolls require periodic review and maintenance, such administrative measures must not result in large-scale disenfranchisement of eligible voters.

The observation is significant given ongoing debates over electoral practices and the balance between administrative efficiency and inclusive democratic participation across Indian states.