Is the Right to Vote Being Taken Away? Rabri Devi Raises Alarm as SIR Controversy Escalates in Bihar Assembly
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Synopsis
The political landscape in Bihar is heating up as former Chief Minister Rabri Devi condemns the removal of 61 lakh names from the voter list during the Special Intensive Revision. With claims of voter rights being compromised, the opposition intensifies protests while ruling party leaders defend the electoral process. Will this lead to a significant electoral shift?
Key Takeaways
- 61 lakh names have been removed from Bihar's voter list.
- The opposition claims the SIR process is unconstitutional.
- Government officials assert that the SIR is a routine procedure.
- Protests may affect upcoming election outcomes.
- Transparency in the electoral process is crucial for public trust.
New Delhi, July 25 (NationPress) A political upheaval surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has captured attention on the concluding day of the Bihar Assembly, with opposition factions actively voicing their concerns against the process.
Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi reflected the sentiments of the opposition, stating, “The names of 61 lakh individuals have been deleted from the voter list. The BJP is infringing upon the people's right to vote.”
CPI(ML) MLC Shashi Yadav labeled the action as unconstitutional and without precedent. “This is the first occurrence of its kind in the nation. Previously, we had the constitutional right to vote upon reaching 18. However, the government now demands proof of whether your name will appear on the voter list. This is unjust, and we oppose it,” she asserted.
In contrast, leaders from JD(U) dismissed the accusations as mere political theatrics. Senior party figure K.C. Tyagi remarked, “A month was allotted for name registrations on the voter list. 97 percent of people have already signed up. Those whose names are missing or incorrectly recorded still have the opportunity to rectify this. I trust the impartiality of the Election Commission.”
JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha added, “This is not the first time an SIR is conducted in Bihar; a similar process occurred in 2003. It is the duty of the Election Commission to revise the list ahead of each election. There’s nothing unusual or malicious about this.”
RJD leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui criticized the government's avoidance of open discussions, stating, “Our position has been clearly articulated in the House. This matter warrants serious debate, yet the government is sidestepping it, suggesting that something is being concealed.”
In reaction to the opposition's protests, Bihar Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary claimed, “There was a discussion on the SIR in the Vidhan Sabha at the request of the opposition. They assured they would cease protests after that. Yet, they continue because their real issue isn’t with the SIR.”
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav escalated the situation nationally by reaching out to 35 notable opposition figures, expressing grave concern over what he termed a “deliberate cleansing drive.”
He even warned of a potential boycott of the forthcoming Assembly elections if the ongoing process remains unchecked.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of the ongoing SIR debate in Bihar. While the opposition raises valid concerns about voter representation, it is essential to consider the government's perspective on electoral integrity. Transparency and fairness in the electoral process must be upheld to maintain public trust, ensuring that every eligible citizen's voice is heard.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process conducted by the Election Commission to update and revise the electoral rolls, ensuring accuracy and integrity ahead of elections.
Why are opposition parties protesting the SIR?
Opposition parties, including RJD and CPI(ML), argue that the removal of 61 lakh names from the voter list infringes upon citizens' voting rights and is unconstitutional.
How does the government defend the SIR process?
The government, represented by JD(U) leaders, defends the SIR process by stating that it is a routine procedure conducted before elections and emphasizes that a significant majority of individuals have been successfully registered.
What are the potential implications of this political drama?
The ongoing protests and debates could significantly impact voter sentiment and participation in the upcoming elections, potentially altering the political landscape in Bihar.
Is there a risk of boycotting the elections?
Yes, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has threatened to boycott the upcoming Assembly elections if the current voter list revision process continues without transparency.
