ECI to Verify Burqa-Clad Voters in Bihar to Ensure Identity Accuracy

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The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced that it will conduct a verification process for burqa-clad women voters across polling stations in Bihar. The measure is aimed at ensuring accurate voter identification and preventing impersonation during the upcoming elections.

According to the ECI’s official directive, Anganwadi workers will assist polling officials in verifying the identity of voters wearing burqas. This move comes as part of the Commission’s broader effort to maintain transparency and fairness in the voting process.

Under the new procedure, trained Anganwadi workers, all female personnel, will be present at polling booths to help election officers verify the identity of women voters who cover their faces for religious or personal reasons. The verification will take place in a private and respectful setting, ensuring both accuracy and privacy.

Officials clarified that the verification process will not involve any form of discrimination or inconvenience to voters but will strictly focus on matching the face with the photograph on the voter ID card.

The ECI stated that the decision was taken after reviewing reports from previous elections, where polling officers faced difficulties confirming voter identities in certain constituencies. The measure is being introduced as a preventive step to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and avoid duplication or fraudulent voting.

The Commission emphasized that the process will be implemented in compliance with the Model Code of Conduct and with full respect to cultural and religious sentiments.

The directive has been confirmed for implementation across all polling stations in Bihar, with instructions already issued to District Election Officers and Returning Officers. Training sessions for Anganwadi workers and polling staff are also being organized to ensure smooth execution.

The Election Commission reiterated that voter privacy and dignity will remain paramount while maintaining strict adherence to identification protocols.