On Aadhaar For Voter Roll Change, Sources In Poll Body Clarify Timing

New Delhi:

The Election Commission of India has implemented a new requirement mandating the use of Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers for all online voter registration changes, including additions, deletions, or modifications. This policy requires applicants to provide their Aadhaar-connected phone number to process any application.

According to an official who spoke with NDTV, this decision was made approximately one month ago by the Election Commission. The Commission's IT department has been developing this system, which is now fully operational.

The timing of this implementation coincides with recent allegations from Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi regarding large-scale voter removals in Karnataka. Gandhi has criticized the Commission for allegedly failing to supply crucial information requested by the Criminal Investigation Department.

"This isn't happening randomly. It's a systematic operation. A 'third force' is conducting targeted voter deletions," stated Gandhi during his second press conference on the matter, suggesting that major revelations—what he termed an "H-bomb"—were forthcoming.

Gandhi specifically claimed that 6,018 voters had been removed from the electoral rolls in the Aland Assembly constituency, accusing the Election Commission of India of "voter theft."

In response, Karnataka's Chief Electoral Officer V Anbukkumar issued a comprehensive rebuttal.

The CEO explained that in December 2022, Aland's Electoral Roll Officer received 6,018 Form 7 deletion applications through online platforms. Due to suspicions about such a large volume, thorough verification procedures were conducted, including document examination and field visits.

The investigation determined that only 24 applications were legitimate, while 5,994 were found to be invalid and subsequently rejected.

This verification process confirmed that no mass voter deletion occurred. Additionally, the CEO noted that a First Information Report was filed at Aland Police Station (FIR No.26/2023, dated 21.02.2023) to investigate these fraudulent applications.

After The Indian Express reported that Aadhaar-linked numbers were becoming mandatory following Gandhi's press conference, the Congress leader took to social media, alleging that the Election Commission acted only after being "caught."

"Gyanesh ji, we caught the theft and only then did you remember to put a lock. Now we'll catch the thieves too. So, tell us, when are you going to give the evidence to CID?" Gandhi posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.