The Election Commission of India (ECI) has removed approximately 52 lakh names from Bihar’s electoral roll as part of its ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) ahead of the state assembly elections. Among the deleted entries, around 18 lakhare accounted for by deceased individuals, 2.6 million have reportedly migrated to other constituencies, and 7 lakh were found to be registered twice.

Despite growing concerns from the Opposition, warning that the purge could disenfranchise legitimate voters, the ECI confirmed that the draft electoral roll will be published on August 1, with a one-month window (Aug 1–Sept 1) permitted for objections, additions, or corrections. After final revisions, the definitive list is scheduled to be issued by September 30, though eligible voters may still enrol up until the nomination deadline.

Opposition leaders, including Tejashwi Yadav, have accused the Commission of deliberately targeting marginal constituencies, alleging significant deletions could influence tight races. However, the ECI has defended the process, citing constitutional powers under Article 324 and promising an inclusive approach during the public feedback period.

With electoral registration underway and over 7 crore enumeration forms submitted so far, stakeholders await the draft roll’s final release while keeping a close eye on this politically sensitive exercise.