WEBDESK: The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has launched a disturbing new plan that threatens to strip millions of voters in Bihar of their right to vote.
In a move widely condemned as discriminatory and politically motivated, the Indian Election Commission (ECI) has ordered the re-verification of documents for around 80 million voters in Bihar a decision many see as a direct attack on democracy.
On 24 June 2025, the Election Commission announced that nearly 80 million voters in Bihar must complete fresh voter registration by 26 July or face being labelled as “doubtful foreigners.” Those unable to provide the required documents risk losing their voting rights, facing imprisonment, or even deportation.
Critics and opposition parties argue this latest crackdown seems designed to target specific communities, especially Muslims, Dalits, and marginalised groups.
The Modi government has long faced accusations of marginalising minorities and using state institutions to push a fascist agenda. This voter verification drive is viewed as a backdoor attempt to quietly enforce the controversial National Register of Citizens (NRC), aiming to remove millions of voters in Bihar from the electoral rolls under the guise of document checks.
Adding to public concern is the severe lack of transparency and public consultation. The Election Commission has reportedly deployed 100,000 officials and 400,000 volunteers for this operation, but without involving the public or explaining the true purpose behind this massive exercise targeting voters in Bihar.
What makes this move even more alarming is the current situation in Bihar. The state is grappling with severe poverty, high illiteracy rates, and widespread unemployment. Moreover, devastating floods have affected two-thirds of the region this year, leaving countless people displaced and unable to access their homes or official documents. For voters in Bihar already battling natural disasters and poverty, this move adds yet another cruel hurdle, threatening to deprive them of one of their most basic democratic rights.
Opposition leaders have strongly condemned the move. The Congress party called it a “direct assault on democracy,” while Rahul Gandhi denounced it as “illegal, unconstitutional, and blatant electoral fraud.” AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi also criticised the plan, calling it a conspiracy to rob poor and disadvantaged communities of their right to vote.
Observers and rights groups agree this latest episode further exposes the Modi government’s fascist tendencies. India’s claim to be the world’s largest democracy is now under serious question, as it uses state machinery to silence dissent and disenfranchise those least able to defend themselves
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