The Election Commission of India has reacted to allegations made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi concerning the voter enrolment process linked to Form 6. Gandhi has raised concerns over the inclusion of new voters and potential irregularities in the electoral rolls, specifically during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. His accusations have highlighted the use of Form 6, which enables eligible citizens to apply for their names to be added to the electoral roll.

Gandhi’s persistent questioning aims to illuminate issues surrounding voter additions, suggesting that the process might allow ineligible individuals to register. The Congress party has expressed the need for more rigorous examination of how voter applications are handled, especially in states where discrepancies have been noted in electoral lists.

Function and Process of Form 6

Form 6 is officially recognised as the application necessary for individuals intending to add their names to the electoral roll. This form can be submitted by citizens who have not yet registered as voters. However, completing and submitting the form is not the conclusive action for enrolment. Every application must undergo a verification process, leading to a decision by an electoral registration officer regarding the applicant’s eligibility.

It is vital to understand that while Form 6 serves as an initial step, it is part of a larger framework designed to ensure electoral integrity. The proper processing of these applications helps to maintain the accuracy of voter lists and safeguards against wrongful registrations.

The discrepancies highlighted by Rahul Gandhi have led to calls for transparency and accountability in the procedures surrounding Form 6. The Electoral Commission’s response aims to clarify these processes and ensure that voters are informed about their rights and the steps required for registration.

The Electoral Commission’s Clarification

The Election Commission has categorised Gandhi’s assertions as “misleading,” addressing two key points about the SIR process in Bihar. It stated that the order initiating the SIR on 24 June 2025 was not a unilateral decision; rather, it received unanimous approval from the commission and was confirmed by the Supreme Court in its judgement dated 27 May 2026. This underscores the collective agreement on essential electoral procedures.

Furthermore, the Electoral Commission referred to its Press Note No. 120, dated 26 September 2026, indicating that the declaration associated with Form 6 for the SIR had been endorsed by the Supreme Court. However, they did not specify any alterations made to Form 6 or identify who was responsible for its modification, an issue that the Supreme Court has requested clarification on.

The Supreme Court has emphasised the need for complete transparency regarding any modifications to Form 6, stating expressly that it has not approved any altered version. This directive illustrates the court’s commitment to ensuring that all electoral processes are conducted in accordance with established laws and principles.

Importance of Form 6 in Electoral Revisions

Form 6 is becoming increasingly significant within the ongoing discourse surrounding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The Electoral Commission’s current focus not only revolves around the removal of ineligible voters but also on making certain that qualified voters who may have been omitted are provided an opportunity to register.

This dual approach elevates the importance of Form 6, as it allows eligible individuals to seek inclusion in the electoral lists. Thus, the current argument encompasses broader themes of eligibility verification and the security of voter registrations, raising questions about the adequacy of existing safeguards against improper registrations.

The ongoing dialogue between Rahul Gandhi and the Election Commission reflects a much larger political contest over the revision of electoral rolls. While Congress voices its concerns over the potential exclusion of legitimate voters, the commission asserts that the exercise is aimed at enhancing the integrity and accuracy of electoral records, ensuring that every valid voter has the chance to register.

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