124 Former Civil Servants Back Election Commission's Electoral Roll Revision
One hundred twenty-four former IAS, IFS, and other service officers issued an open letter on Saturday in support of the Election Commission of India and its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The former officials defended the electoral process and said claims of rigged elections must be supported by credible evidence rather than assertions.
The officers cited significant improvements in election management over decades, noting that practices like booth capturing, violence, and fake voting—once widespread—are now criminal offences following a 1989 law. They referenced Bihar's 2025 Assembly election as evidence, highlighting record voter turnout since 1951, particularly among women, with no re-polling required across any constituency.
The letter argued that the SIR is essential for maintaining electoral integrity by removing deceased voters and duplicate entries while adding new eligible voters. The officers stated that accusations of fraud cannot be selective—functioning fairly when one's preferred candidate wins and fraudulently when they lose. They emphasised that while citizens have the right to question processes, the burden of proof rests with those making allegations. This comes after 42 judges released a similar supportive statement on October 7.
