In a key ruling, the Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission (EC) to accept Aadhaar as a valid proof of identity for voter list revisions in Bihar. With this, Aadhaar becomes the 12th officially recognised document for voter registration under the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
Verification Mandatory
The court stressed that while Aadhaar can be used for voter identity, its authenticity must be verified before acceptance. Authorities are allowed to cross-check Aadhaar submissions to maintain the integrity of electoral rolls and prevent fraudulent entries.
Not Proof of Citizenship
At the same time, the court clarified that Aadhaar cannot be treated as proof of Indian citizenship. “Aadhaar card is not proof of citizenship and will not be accepted as such,” the bench stated, adding that the EC must ensure no illegal immigrants are added to the rolls.
ECI to Issue Guidelines
The Election Commission has said it will follow the Supreme Court’s directions and issue instructions to electoral officers in Bihar to implement the order.
September 1 Proceedings
On September 1, the court also recorded the EC’s assurance that claims and objections regarding the Bihar draft roll will be entertained even after the September 1 deadline, until the last date of nominations. The bench, led by Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, declined to extend the deadline further.
The court further asked the Bihar Legal Services Authority (BLSA) to mobilise para-legal volunteers to help voters and political parties file claims, objections, and corrections online.