The Election Commission (EC) has taken an important step to make online applications for changes in the voter list more secure. Now, Aadhaar authentication has been made mandatory for online forms related to new enrollment, objections for deletion, or corrections. This move has been introduced to ensure accuracy and transparency in the voter list.
What does the new rule say?
According to the EC, Aadhaar-based OTP verification under the ‘e-sign’ process is now required for online applications such as:
- Form 6 (new enrollment)
- Form 7 (objection for inclusion or deletion of names)
- Form 8 (corrections)
Applicants will need to enter their name, mobile number (self or of a relative such as father, mother, husband, or legal guardian), and EPIC number. These details will then be matched with Aadhaar records. If the details do not match, the application will not be accepted.
This reform was prepared in August and came into effect in the second week of September. According to EC sources, the step aims to prevent fake applications and maintain the purity of the electoral roll.
Also Read: Update Phone Number, Address, and DOB in Minutes at Home via e-Aadhaar App
What if you don’t have Aadhaar?
People without an Aadhaar card need not worry. In such cases, traditional paper forms can still be filled and submitted personally to the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) or Booth Level Officer (BLO). The EC has clarified that this rule applies only to the online process, to ensure proper identity verification for those using digital facilities.
Inspired by the Aland case?
This change comes amid recent controversies. On September 18, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi alleged in a press conference that over 6,000 voter names had been illegally deleted in Karnataka’s Aland constituency. The EC, however, denied this, stating that of the 6,018 deletion requests received in December 2022, only 24 were found valid, while 5,994 turned out to be false. On September 6, 2023, the Aland ERO filed an FIR and handed over details to the investigating agency. The EC says the new Aadhaar rule will help prevent such irregularities in the future.