Special Correspondent
The number of registered voters in the country has risen to 12 crore 63 lakh 7 thousand 504, according to the Election Commission (EC). EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed disclosed the updated figure while briefing reporters at the Election Building today (Sunday).
Compared to the list published on March 2, the number of voters has increased by around 26 lakh. At that time, the total number stood at 12 crore 37 lakh 32 thousand 274.
Explaining the process, the EC Secretary said that 45 lakh 71 thousand 216 names were initially added to the draft list up to June 25. Among them, 21 lakh 32 thousand 590 names were removed due to deaths.
Later, an additional 13 lakh 7 thousand 642 names were included at the field level until August 31, while 1,038 names were dropped for the same reason.
As a result, the final voter number now comprises 6 crore 41 lakh 455 male voters while 6 crore 22 lakh 581 female voters, and 1,230 transgender voters.
The EC Secretary further informed that another updated list will be prepared by October 31, incorporating those who will reach the age of 18 by then.
It may be noted that the 13th National Election is scheduled for February next year, and the Election Commission has already published the election roadmap.