The decision was taken as EC´s stance on compulsory citizenship certificates raised legal issues and intermittent disturbances in Tarai districts by Madhes-based parties hampered registrations. [break]
According to EC Spokesperson Rajendra Sharma, the Electoral Rolls Act 2006 provisions considering other forms of identification for voters.
Clause 11 of the Act says, “…the Enrollment Officer may ask the person concerned or her family to submit citizenship certificate, land ownership certificate or any identity card issued by a government office, local body, government-owned organization or educational institute, stating date of birth, age or place of residence.”
“...recommendations from Village Development Committees or municipality ward offices enlisting details of a person will also be considered,” Sharma said.
Earlier, the EC had taken citizenship certificate as the basis for registration as it is a complete document containing details.
Acting EC chief Neelkantha Upreeti said, “The decision is as per the legal provision to ensure no Nepali citizen is debarred from registering in the electoral roll. It simplifies and elaborates on the legal provision on voter registration. It is expected to resolve confusion in parts of the country while registering voters with their photographs and biometric.”
Madhesh-based parties have lauded the decision, saying it will resolve voter registration disputes.
“We are satisfied. Now we will not create any hurdles as the decision is on par with legal provisions,” said Govind Chaudhary, Tarai Madhes Democratic Party general-secretary.
In its bid to end irregularities in voting, the EC had initiated the registration system requiring signature and photo.
Earlier, the EC met 26 political parties represented in the Constituent Assembly to address the grievances of Madhes-based parties.
Sharma said the EC had taken into consideration suggestions from all political parties.
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