Approximately 60 million names removed in the first year of the Electoral Roll Scrutiny Initiative.

Following the implementation of the Bihar Special Infrastructure Region (SIR) project, reports indicate that the voters list in the state has been reduced by approximately 6.5 million entries. This change has sparked allegations from opposition parties and various activists, who claim that the election authorities are acting under the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to systematically disenfranchise citizens. Critics argue that the requirements for documentation to remain on the voter list are overly stringent, potentially leading to the exclusion of eligible voters.

In response, election officials have stated that the pruning of the voters list was conducted in accordance with legal guidelines and is part of a routine updating process intended to ensure the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls. These officials emphasize that maintaining a reliable voter database is essential for free and fair elections.

The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about electoral transparency and the accessibility of the voting process in India, particularly in light of the upcoming elections. Stakeholders, including civil society organizations, are calling for a review of the criteria used for voter registration to ensure that it does not impede legitimate citizens from exercising their democratic rights. As the situation develops, discussions surrounding electoral reform and the safeguarding of voter rights are likely to continue.