In preparation for the upcoming Bihar Assembly Elections, all registered voters across the state will receive newly updated EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Cards). The Election Commission has already completed the first phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the state’s electoral rolls. The second phase, currently underway, involves publishing the draft voter list and addressing claims and objections.

This claim and objection process will continue until 1st September 2025. During this period, voters are required to submit updated documents and a new photograph to ensure their details are correctly recorded in the electoral database. The final voter list will be published on 30th September 2025 after all updates are made.

EPIC Cards Will Be Reissued to All Voters

Though the Election Commission has not yet announced a specific date for distributing the new EPIC cards, sources confirm that every eligible voter in Bihar will be issued an updated voter ID card before the elections. The updated EPICs will reflect revised details, including updated photographs, which are crucial for identity verification during polling.

Voters who wish to appear with their latest photograph on the new EPIC must submit it before 1st September 2025. This photograph must be submitted either through the designated Booth Level Officer (BLO) or uploaded online using the voter’s existing EPIC number.

Photo Submission Mandatory for New Voter ID Cards

As per the commission’s guidelines, each voter must attach a recent passport-size photograph along with supporting documents when submitting a claim or objection. These materials can be handed over directly to the BLO, who will then upload the photograph linked to the respective EPIC number.

Alternatively, tech-savvy voters may choose to upload the photo and documents online. This process is being promoted as a time-saving and transparent method to complete the update. The online portal for this purpose remains open throughout the claim-objection period, ending on 1st September.

Final Voter List to Be Released on 30th September

Once the claim and objection phase concludes, the Election Commission will begin compiling the final list of voters. This final publication is scheduled for 30th September 2025, giving ample time for further corrections, if any, before the state proceeds to the polls.

The final list will form the official base for voter identification and polling arrangements in all constituencies. It ensures that all eligible voters are included and those who may have been disqualified or duplicated are removed from the list.

Voters Facing Repeated Document Submission Issues

Many voters have reported that even after submitting documents during the household verification stage, they are again being asked to upload the same documents online. Some have already submitted their identification proof and photographs to the BLO, but the online draft voter list still shows discrepancies or missing data.

This has caused confusion and compelled several voters to contact their respective BLOs once again. There is a growing concern that many voters may face issues if their updates are not recorded properly before the final publication.

Technical Challenges and Communication Gaps

The Election Commission acknowledges the technical glitches faced during the uploading process. In several cases, due to server delays or input mismatches, voters’ submissions did not reflect in the online system. The Commission has advised such voters to stay in touch with their BLOs and re-submit the documents if needed.

Efforts are underway to streamline the process. Voters are urged to retain copies of all submitted forms and photographs to avoid last-minute hassles. The Commission is also working on improving coordination between BLOs and supervisory staff to resolve errors before finalizing the electoral roll.

Political Neutrality and Transparency Emphasized

The Election Commission has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. Concerns raised by political parties over the revision process are being looked into. So far, no major objection has been formally raised against the draft voter list by any party.

Recent updates show that all State-Level Supervisors, Electoral Registration Officers, and BLOs are being trained to ensure the error-free compilation of the list. The Commission has also announced increased honorarium for BLOs and supervisors as part of a motivation and accountability initiative.

How Voters Can Check and Update Their Details

To ensure their details are correctly recorded in the updated voter list, voters can visit the official Election Commission website and follow these steps:

1. Log in using your EPIC number or registered mobile number.

2. Check your details in the draft voter list.

3. If corrections are needed, raise a claim and upload supporting documents and photo.

4. Confirm submission and note the application reference number.

BLOs are also available for in-person support in each polling area. Voters can approach them to clarify doubts or submit hard copies of documents if they face issues online.

Voter Participation Key to Election Readiness

The Commission emphasizes that voter cooperation is crucial for completing the voter list revision on time. With the Bihar Assembly Elections approaching, it is vital for every eligible citizen to ensure their data is updated, accurate, and complete.

Failing to submit the new photograph and documents may result in a voter not receiving their updated EPIC, potentially affecting their ability to cast a vote.

With the countdown to elections already underway, the Election Commission’s decision to issue new EPIC cards for all voters in Bihar is a significant move toward ensuring clean and efficient electoral rolls. Voters must act quickly and responsibly by submitting their new photograph and verifying their details before the 1st September deadline.

The final voter list, set for release on 30th September 2025, will be a cornerstone in shaping the next democratic exercise in the state. Citizens, BLOs, and electoral staff must work in coordination to ensure no eligible voter is left behind.