Assam remains the only Indian state with a distinct category of 'D' or 'doubtful' voters in its electoral rolls, a system that has been operational since 1997. A special revision of these rolls, announced for 2025, brings this controversial classification back into focus, raising questions about its impact on thousands of residents.
Who Exactly Are the 'D' Voters in Assam?
The 'D' voter tag is applied to individuals whose citizenship documents are deemed questionable or doubtful by the authorities. This classification was introduced in 1997 through a directive from the Election Commission of India. The primary intent was to identify and separate individuals who could not sufficiently prove their Indian citizenship, thereby preventing their participation in the democratic process.
Once a person is marked with a 'D' in the electoral roll, their voting rights are suspended. Their case is then referred to a Foreigners' Tribunal, a quasi-judicial body unique to Assam. The burden of proof lies with the individual to establish their citizenship before the tribunal. Until a verdict is reached in their favor, they remain disenfranchised.
The Upcoming Special Revision of Electoral Rolls
The Election Commission has scheduled a special summary revision of the electoral rolls in November 2025. This process is a meticulous exercise to update the voter list, including the addition of new eligible voters, deletion of deceased individuals, and corrections to existing entries.
This revision holds particular significance for 'D' voters. It is a critical window during which the status of these individuals can be reviewed. Those who have since obtained favorable judgments from the Foreigners' Tribunals may have their 'D' tag removed and their voting rights restored, provided they can present the necessary legal documents during the revision process.
Consequences and the Larger Context
The existence of the 'D' voter system is deeply intertwined with Assam's complex history of migration and the longstanding political issue of illegal immigration. The process has been a subject of intense debate and litigation, with critics arguing that it often targets marginalized communities and places a heavy legal and emotional burden on individuals.
The system operates in parallel with the National Register of Citizens (NRC), another massive exercise undertaken in Assam to document legitimate Indian citizens. The outcomes of both the NRC and the Foreigners' Tribunals directly influence the electoral roll revision. The special revision in 2025 is therefore not just an administrative event but a crucial moment that will determine the political inclusion or exclusion of many, shaping the electoral landscape of the state.
