In preparation for the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, the Systematic Electoral Revision (SIR) process is proceeding rapidly. During this time, the Election Commission has made significant changes to the documentation procedures for existing voters, new voters, and voters who have changed their place of residence in the state.
Bihar Assembly Elections 2025: Amidst preparations for the Bihar Assembly elections, the Election Commission has decided to make major changes regarding the voter list (Voter List). Specifically, amendments have been made to the rules related to Form 6 and Form 8. This change may be implemented not only in Bihar but also throughout the country. The Election Commission's aim is to update the voter list to be completely accurate and in accordance with the Citizenship Act, 2003.
What are Form 6 and Form 8?
- Form 6: Form 6 is mandatory for new voters (New Voter) who want to get their names added to the voter list for the first time. Earlier, a birth certificate and proof of residence were required under this.
- Form 8: If a person changes their residence or wants to make any corrections in the voter list, they have to fill out Form 8.
The Election Commission has clarified that now, those who want to become new voters in Bihar or are coming from other states and residing here, will not only need to provide their birth certificate.
List of New Documents
- Birth Certificate
- Parents’ Document Proof
- 'Additional Declaration Form'
What needs to be filled in the Additional Declaration Form?
In this form, the person will have to give a written declaration that they are a citizen of India and their parents were also born in India. Along with this, the documents of the parents will also have to be attached. Under the new rules of the Election Commission, those who were born after July 1, 1987, need to provide the documents of either themselves or one of their parents. Whereas, those who were born after December 2, 2004, will have to provide documents of both themselves and their parents.
Where is the problem occurring?
The situation for those who do not have parents or do not have documents has not yet been clarified.
Many people also do not have their parents' birth certificates, which is causing them difficulty.
Why is this change being made?
The Election Commission wants the voter list to be in accordance with the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003, so that it is clear that no non-citizen is included in the voter list. Therefore, now every new voter will have to provide proof that they and their parents are citizens of India. This rule has currently been implemented under the SIR (Special Intensive Revision) process in Bihar. After seeing the feedback in Bihar, it may be implemented throughout the country.
