Bihar SIR row: Claims and objections can be filed even after Sept 1 deadline, EC tells SC

As RJD and AIMIM sought extension of time for filing claims and objections with regard to the Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Rolls in poll-bound Bihar, the Election Commission on Monday told the Supreme Court that it can be done beyond the September 1 deadline.

Senior counsel Rakesh Dwivedi, representing the poll panel, however, said such claims and objections filed after the deadline will be considered after finalisation of the electoral rolls.

In view of a statement made by Dwivedi, a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant chose not to pass any orders on pleas filed by the RJD and the AIMIM.

“As regards extension of time, note (submitted by EC) says that filing of claims/objections or corrections is not barred after September 1. It is stated that the claims, objections, corrections can be submitted even after the deadline, ie after 1 September and same will be considered after roll has been finalized. The process will continue until the last date of nominations and all inclusions/exclusions are integrated in the final roll. In light of this stand, let the claims/objections/corrections be continued to be filed,” the top court ordered.

“Meanwhile, political parties/petitioners may submit their affidavits in response to the note,” it added.