Assam Begins Special Voter List Revision, D-Voters to Remain Unchanged

The Election Commission has initiated a special summary revision of Assam’s electoral rolls ahead of the 2026 assembly polls. This exercise differs from the intensive revision underway in several other states and comes with specific rules connected to the state’s unique citizenship framework.

How the Special Revision Will Be Conducted

From 22 November, booth-level officers will undertake home visits using pre-filled registers of existing electors instead of blank forms. They will verify entries, identify duplicate or shifted voters, and assist citizens with applications for inclusion, deletion, or correction through standard forms carried during fieldwork.

Status of D-Voters During the Revision

A key decision states that doubtful voters will not undergo verification in this revision. Their names will continue with the “D” marking in the draft list exactly as before. Any change in their status, including removal of the tag, can occur only through orders issued by a tribunal or a court, keeping administrative officers from altering these entries.

Background and Origin of D-Voters

The category stems from provisions linked to the 1985 Assam Accord, which treated individuals entering the state illegally after 24 March 1971 as foreigners. In 1997, the rolls were updated and several thousand names were tagged as doubtful. These individuals are required to prove their citizenship before foreigners tribunals using legacy documents and other records. The state currently has close to one lakh such voters.

Exam Oriented Facts

• D-voters are those whose citizenship status is under verification in Assam.
• The “D” tag can only be changed through a tribunal or court order.
• The special revision uses pre-filled registers instead of blank forms.
• The final electoral roll will be published on 10 February 2026.

Implications Ahead of the 2026 Elections

The decision ensures routine updates for all non-D voters, while doubtful voters remain disenfranchised until they receive legal clearance. The exercise is closely tied to ongoing citizenship verification efforts, including the NRC process, and aims to ensure a clean and accurate electoral roll ahead of polling.