What Clarifications Did CPI-ML Seek Over Voter Deletion?
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Synopsis
In a recent meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner, CPI-ML raised significant concerns regarding voter deletions and the electoral process. With calls for transparency, they demand clarity on the voter list and suggest modifications to election phases to facilitate a fairer election environment.
Key Takeaways
- CPI-ML raises concerns over voter deletions.
- Demands transparency in electoral processes.
- Calls for two-phase elections for efficiency.
- Highlights gender ratio discrepancies in voter demographics.
- Reports of biased appointing of presiding officers.
Patna, Oct 4 (NationPress) Following a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in Patna, the CPI-ML has put forth a variety of concerns and proposals concerning the ongoing electoral procedures and the newly released voter list under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
CPI-ML central committee member Santosh Sahani stated that the party is seeking clarification on numerous significant matters.
“The final list of SIR has been issued. Initially, around 65 lakh names were removed in the draft, and subsequently, an additional 3.66 lakh names have been eliminated. We are unaware of the criteria used for striking off these names. We demand the Election Commission to provide a booth-wise list of these deleted voters with explicit details and justifications, similar to what was previously done for the 65 lakh voters following the Supreme Court’s directive,” Sahani mentioned.
He also pointed out the inclusion of nearly 21 lakh new voters in the final list.
“This figure encompasses both entirely new voters and those reinstated after submitting claims or objections. We request a distinct booth-wise list of those older voters whose names were unjustly deleted and later reinstated,” he asserted.
Highlighting discrepancies, Sahani remarked: “According to the Bihar caste survey, the male-female ratio in the state is 914, yet the SIR reflects it as 892. This suggests a drop in female voters, and we seek clarification regarding this inconsistency.”
The CPI-ML also expressed concerns over reports indicating that 6,000 individuals have had their citizenship status marked as suspicious.
“If this is accurate, the names and reasons must be disclosed to the public,” Sahani emphasized.
The party further proposed that the Bihar Assembly elections be conducted in just two phases, labeling multi-phase elections as “burdensome, costly, and exhausting, particularly for smaller parties.”
On the subject of administrative appointments, the CPI-ML accused the authorities of bias in the selection of presiding officers.
“We have received reports from multiple districts, including Bhojpur, indicating that senior officials from Muslim, Dalit, or marginalized communities are being overlooked, while officials from socially dominant groups are being appointed as presiding officers. We demand rigorous action to halt such practices,” Sahani insisted.
The party also called for polling agents to be given Form 17C for security, and for booths designated for Dalit, Muslim, and backward communities to be situated within their own regions to guarantee fair and transparent voting.
Point of View
It is crucial to ensure that electoral processes remain transparent and fair. The CPI-ML's demand for clarity regarding voter deletions underscores the need for the Election Commission to uphold integrity and trust in the democratic process. Ensuring every voter is accounted for is vital for the legitimacy of our elections.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CPI-ML's main concern regarding the voter list?
The CPI-ML is primarily concerned about the deletion of 3.66 lakh names from the voter list without clear justification and is demanding a detailed booth-wise report of these deletions.
How many new voters were added to the final list?
The final voter list includes nearly 21 lakh new voters, consisting of entirely new registrations and those reinstated after filing claims.
Why does CPI-ML want the elections conducted in two phases?
CPI-ML argues that multi-phase elections can be cumbersome and costly, particularly affecting smaller parties, and they advocate for a more efficient two-phase electoral process.
What discrepancies did the CPI-ML highlight in voter demographics?
The CPI-ML pointed out that the male-female ratio in the SIR voter list shows a decline to 892, compared to the caste survey ratio of 914, indicating a concerning drop in female voters.
What actions does CPI-ML demand regarding presiding officers?
CPI-ML is demanding that the Election Commission address allegations of discrimination in appointing presiding officers, specifically against those from marginalized communities.
