UP Orders Action Against Officials After Electoral Roll Errors in Pilibhit Sadar

Election authorities in Uttar Pradesh have ordered action against officials after discrepancies were detected in electoral rolls in the Pilibhit Sadar Assembly constituency. The irregularities came to light after complaints that certain Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers were displaying details belonging to other voters during online searches.

Following an inquiry, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer directed the district administration to correct the identified errors and investigate how the discrepancies occurred. The authorities have also ordered the removal of the concerned Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) and the operator of the Voter Registration Centre from electoral roll-related duties.

Proceedings have been directed under Section 32 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, along with applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Officials have also been asked to examine the role of other personnel involved in maintaining the electoral records. The issue gained political attention after the Congress alleged irregularities in voter entries in Pilibhit Sadar. The party claimed that 13,150 voter names were changed between July and September despite the corresponding EPIC and serial numbers remaining unchanged. It also alleged that 804 existing voters had been removed and around 2,600 entries had been added for people who did not reside in the constituency.

These figures form part of the party's allegations and have not all been established by the preliminary inquiry. The confirmed discrepancies involving voter identification numbers have nevertheless prompted further scrutiny of the electoral database. Election authorities have ordered a statewide review of voter records across Uttar Pradesh. District Election Officers have been instructed to check Assembly constituencies for similar errors and submit reports within two days. The Pilibhit administration has also been directed to conduct a detailed verification of electoral rolls across the district. The review aims to identify incorrect entries, ensure voter information is accurate and determine whether the discrepancies are confined to Pilibhit Sadar or affect other areas. Officials are expected to examine the processes used to update and maintain voter records.

Accurate electoral rolls are essential for ensuring that eligible citizens can exercise their voting rights without unnecessary complications. Errors involving voter names, identification numbers or registration status can create confusion and undermine public confidence in the electoral process. The action in Pilibhit comes amid growing demands for transparency and accountability in voter registration. The findings of the wider review are expected to help authorities determine the extent of the problem and establish responsibility for any administrative lapses.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.