Pakistan, July 10 -- NEW DELHI - Indian election officials have launched a strict voter registration drive in Bihar, demanding proof of citizenship from millions of residents. The move has sparked concerns of mass disenfranchisement, especially among Muslims, Dalits, and poor communities.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced in June that all voters in Bihar must submit citizenship documents by July 25. Officials say the revision aims to remove "illegal immigrants" from electoral rolls. However, critics argue that many people simply do not have the required documents, especially in states with low literacy rates like Bihar.

Those registered before 2003 can submit old voter records, but others-around 30 million-must provide bi...