Is ECI Advancing BJP's 'Vote Chori' Agenda? Venugopal Responds on SIR Exercise
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Congress leader K.C. Venugopal accused the ECI of pushing the BJP's controversial agenda through the Special Intensive Review process. With a pivotal Congress meeting held to strategize against these developments, the stakes are high as the party confronts its recent electoral setbacks.
Key Takeaways
- K.C. Venugopal criticizes the ECI's role in the SIR process.
- The Congress party emphasizes the need for impartiality in electoral processes.
- Concerns arise over potential manipulations of voter rolls.
- The meeting reflects Congress's strategy in response to recent electoral challenges.
- Democracy's integrity is at stake, as asserted by party leaders.
New Delhi, Nov 18 (NationPress) Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal stated on Tuesday that the Special Intensive Review (SIR) serves as a mechanism for the Election Commission of India (ECI) to advance the BJP's "vote chori agenda" while neglecting its constitutional responsibilities.
In an extensive strategy session, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge convened senior party officials to deliberate on the ongoing SIR being executed by the ECI in various states.
The assembly included party General Secretaries, In-Charges, PCC and CLP leaders, along with Secretaries from states and union territories involved in the SIR process.
Post-meeting, Venugopal shared on X, "Under the leadership of INC President Mallikarjun Kharge and LoP Rahul Gandhi, I participated in the review meeting with AICC General Secretaries, In-Charges, PCC Presidents, CLP Leaders, and AICC Secretaries from 12 states where SIR is in progress."
The Congress Alappuzha MP emphasized that while the revision of electoral rolls is an "undeniably necessary objective", it must be executed in a "bonafide manner."
"The ECI's actions so far have been to promote the BJP's Vote Chori agenda, sidelining its constitutional duty of impartiality," he remarked.
Venugopal further asserted that the party will "relentlessly fight" against the ECI's "manipulation of voter rolls through unjust deletions or the inclusion of fake voters to facilitate the BJP's dubious activities".
"Our democracy is at risk; we will resist every attempt—either significant or minor—that endangers our constitutional framework," he added.
This meeting occurs as Congress faces both internal and external pressures following a significant defeat in the Bihar Assembly elections, where the party won only six seats.
Point of View
I believe it's essential to approach this situation with an unbiased lens. The allegations by Congress regarding the ECI’s intentions should be taken seriously. Any perceived bias from a constitutional body could undermine the democratic fabric of our nation. It is vital for all parties to uphold the integrity of electoral processes, ensuring that every citizen's vote counts fairly.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Review (SIR)?
The SIR is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India to review electoral rolls and ensure their accuracy ahead of elections.
Why is Congress critical of the ECI's SIR?
Congress alleges that the SIR is being used by the ECI to further the BJP's agenda, compromising the commission's constitutional duties.
What are the potential implications of these allegations?
If the ECI is indeed biased, it could lead to a loss of faith in democratic institutions and the electoral process as a whole.
How does Congress plan to address these concerns?
Congress leaders have committed to fighting against any perceived manipulation of voter rolls and ensuring fair electoral practices.
What is the current political climate for Congress?
Congress is under pressure following a disappointing performance in recent elections, which adds to the urgency of their concerns regarding the ECI.
