The recent release of new electoral rolls in Bihar, India, has sparked controversy. The press reported major flaws, including wrong photos and names of deceased individuals. The Election Commission's month-long Special Intensive Revision (SIR) aimed to update the list of voters, but many citizens have voiced concerns over its execution. This draft now includes 72.4 million names, a reduction of 6.5 million from before. Deletions reportedly comprise deceased individuals and duplicate entries; however, opposition parties argue that marginalized communities have been disproportionately removed to benefit the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

Critics allege that the process lacked thoroughness, raising fears it could disenfranchise genuine voters ahead of state elections set for November. The Supreme Court is also scrutinizing the timing of this revision, with claims of inadequate oversight and verification. As voter complaints grow, many express anxiety, fearing loss of their voting rights could worsen their socio-economic status. Amid this chaos, both supporters and critics of the commission assert different political agendas, underlining the complex relationship between politics and electoral integrity in Bihar.