Bihar Elections: Controversy Erupts Over Voter List as Tejashwi Yadav’s Name is Questioned

Bihar is facing renewed scrutiny regarding its electoral processes as the state prepares for the 2025 Assembly elections. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list has become a focal point of controversy, with accusations of errors and omissions. Tejashwi Yadav, RJD leader and prospective CM, has stated that his name is absent from the draft voter list, raising questions about his ability to contest the elections. He had completed the enumeration form. Janata Dal (United) criticized Yadav, alleging he is spreading misinformation. Yadav addressed a press conference and explained that his name couldn’t be found, even with his EPIC number. The Patna district administration responded by stating that his name is indeed on the list, though with a changed polling station and serial number. Yadav responded by questioning the number of voters whose details had been changed. JDU’s spokesperson, Neeraj Kumar, accused Yadav of political manipulation. The Election Commission denied the allegations, confirming Yadav’s name is listed. The matter is intensifying the political climate in Bihar. The draft electoral roll has been released, with only a fraction of applicants providing necessary documentation. The SIR is a unique voter list verification process allowing for objections to be filed. The last extensive revision in Bihar was conducted in 2003.