65 Lakh Names Off the Rolls: EC Publishes List After SC Push

In a major step towards cleaning up India's electoral rolls, the Election Commission (EC) has put out the names of 65 lakh individuals removed during its ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive.

The decision was not optional. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court directed the poll body to make the deletions public by August 19, and to file a compliance report by August 22.

On the ground, the process has already begun. In Bihar, Chief Electoral Officer officials confirmed that ASD voter lists-covering those marked Absentee, Shifted or Dead-are now posted at polling stations in districts like Rohtas, Begusarai and Arwal. Very soon, the Commission says, the lists will also go online.

For the EC, this exercise is about building credibility. Voter rolls have often drawn criticism for errors, missing names and duplications. By making deletions transparent, the Commission hopes to allow citizens themselves to spot mistakes and challenge them if needed.

The larger message is clear: only eligible citizens should vote. Maintaining the integrity of the rolls, officials argue, is the foundation for free and fair elections.

By acting within the court's deadline, the EC has signalled its intent to be more accountable and open. With elections approaching in several states, the publication of these names is being seen as an important trust-building measure-ensuring that every Indian who is entitled to vote can do so, and only once.