Is Congress Happy with SC's Order on Bihar Voter Roll Review While Criticizing BJP for Disinformation?
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Synopsis
The Congress party is pleased with the Supreme Court's ruling on Bihar's electoral rolls, while accusing the BJP of misinformation. With the Bihar elections approaching, concerns about disenfranchisement of voters arise, particularly among marginalized communities. The party urges inclusivity in the electoral process, raising questions about the timing of the recent electoral revisions.
Key Takeaways
- Supreme Court ruling supports voter identification inclusivity.
- Congress criticizes BJP for misinformation tactics.
- 2 crore voters at risk of disenfranchisement.
- Electoral revisions impact marginalized communities.
- Call for inclusivity in the electoral process.
New Delhi, July 12 (NationPress) The Congress party expressed its contentment with the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, while also criticizing the BJP for propagating misinformation and misrepresenting facts.
During a press briefing at the AICC headquarters in New Delhi, senior Congress leader and CWC member Abhishek Manu Singhvi clarified that the opposition never sought a halt to the SIR process, contrary to the assertions made by the BJP.
Singhvi applauded the court’s order mandating the Election Commission of India (ECI) to accept Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as valid identity verification documents, emphasizing that these collectively encompass nearly 90 percent of voters who might otherwise be left out.
He cautioned that approximately 2 crore voters, from the 4.9 crore registered since 2003, are at risk of disenfranchisement due to the need to present proof of citizenship. He raised concerns over the timing of the ECI's decision, questioning why another round of voter list revision was necessary just before the forthcoming Bihar elections.
“Since 2003, ten elections have taken place. Why the sudden urgency now?” he questioned, highlighting that the last such revision occurred a year prior to the 2004 Lok Sabha elections and about two years before the Assembly elections.
The Congress leader pointed out that the ECI’s actions disproportionately impact marginalized communities -- such as laborers, the impoverished, and minorities -- many of whom migrate for work during the sowing season or encounter difficulties due to monsoon floods.
In criticizing the exclusion of Aadhaar as a proof of citizenship, Singhvi jested, “India relies on Aadhaar -- from rations to railways -- but for elections, it’s suddenly a fairy tale?”
He accused the government of double standards, stating, “You altered the law to accept Aadhaar, then pushed it out of the mainstream.”
The Congress reiterated its dedication to safeguarding voting rights and called upon the electoral authority to promote inclusivity in the electoral roll revision.
Point of View
It is vital to approach this situation with an unbiased perspective, recognizing the importance of fair electoral processes. The Congress party's concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement warrant attention, while the BJP's response highlights the contentious nature of political discourse. Ultimately, the focus should be on ensuring that every citizen has the right to vote.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Supreme Court's ruling regarding Bihar's electoral rolls?
The Supreme Court ordered the Election Commission of India to accept Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards as valid identity documents for the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar.
Why is the Congress party criticizing the BJP?
The Congress party accuses the BJP of spreading misinformation and distorting facts regarding the electoral roll revision process.
How many voters are at risk of disenfranchisement?
Approximately 2 crore voters, out of 4.9 crore registered since 2003, may face disenfranchisement due to proof of citizenship requirements.
What impact does the electoral roll revision have on marginalized communities?
The revision process disproportionately affects marginalized groups, including laborers and minorities, many of whom migrate for work or face challenges during monsoon floods.
What does the Congress party urge the Election Commission to do?
The Congress party urges the Election Commission to ensure inclusivity in the electoral roll revision process to protect voting rights.
