Opposition parties have slammed the Election Commission for adding an undisclosed clause to Form‑6, calling it an extension of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personal power. Congress and CPI(M) MPs demand an immediate rollback of the change.
Key Takeaways
- A new mandatory clause was added to Form‑6 without statutory amendment.
- Congress and CPI(M) label the move as Modi’s personal fiefdom.
- Legal experts deem the action ultra‑vires and unconstitutional.
New Delhi – On Monday, the opposition launched a blistering attack on the Election Commission (EC) for a recent amendment to Form‑6, the core document for voter registration. Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pawan Khera likened the change to “Modi’s personal fiefdom,” while CPI(M) MP John Brittas called the addition illegal and urged its immediate reversal.
What Exactly Changed in Form‑6?
The online version of Form‑6 now contains a compulsory declaration section that asks applicants—or their parents—about the status of the last “SIR” (Super Interaction Register). This new segment appears on the ECINET portal when the form is filled electronically, but it is absent from the downloadable PDF version, creating a discrepancy between the two formats.
Legal Concerns and the Ultra‑Vires Claim
Both Congress and CPI(M) argue that the 1960 Registration of Electors Rules cannot be altered without a formal amendment. Brittas wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stating, “By inserting a mandatory declaration through the ECINET portal without a corresponding statutory amendment, the Commission has effectively amended subordinate legislation by executive action—plainly ultra‑vires.” He further noted that any change to Form‑6 requires a notification from the Ministry of Law and Justice published in the Official Gazette.
Historical Context and Potential Impact
The EC’s independence has been questioned after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with critics alleging bias toward the ruling party. This latest move raises concerns about data misuse, privacy violations, and the possible skewing of electoral rolls. If left unchecked, it could erode public confidence in the voting process and invite legal challenges that may disrupt future elections.
What Comes Next?
The opposition has demanded that the EC withdraw the new clause and follow due legislative procedure. The EC has not yet responded to the allegations, but mounting legal pressure and public scrutiny may force a reassessment. Continuous oversight will be essential to safeguard the integrity of India’s democratic institutions.
