Why Did Ravi Shankar Prasad Criticize the Opposition Over Bihar Bandh?
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Synopsis
In a fierce critique of the INDIA bloc, Ravi Shankar Prasad questions the motives behind the Bihar Bandh, alleging an attempt to pressure the judiciary ahead of a crucial Supreme Court hearing. His remarks highlight the ongoing tensions in Bihar's political landscape regarding voter list revisions.
Key Takeaways
- Ravi Shankar Prasad criticizes the INDIA bloc for the Bihar Bandh.
- Alleges pressure tactics on the judiciary.
- Over 4 crore voters have participated in the voter list revision.
- Election Commission’s process deemed intensive and transparent.
- Opposition raises concerns about EVMs and voter list inaccuracies.
New Delhi, July 9 (NationPress) Senior BJP MP and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad vehemently criticized the INDIA bloc regarding the Bihar Bandh on Wednesday, accusing them of attempting to exert pressure on the judiciary just before a vital Supreme Court hearing set for Thursday regarding the voter list revision.
While speaking to the press on Wednesday, Prasad raised questions about the motives behind the bandh, stating, “When this issue is already under the Supreme Court's jurisdiction, why are the Congress, RJD, and other parties resorting to street protests? Do they wish for the names of infiltrators to remain on the voter list?”
He claimed that the opposition was engaging in politics to protect unlawfully included names in the voter registry, citing Rohingyas and similar individuals. “The reality is they are aware of their declining support in Bihar, just as they witnessed in Haryana, Maharashtra, and Delhi,” he remarked.
Prasad pointed out that of Bihar's 7.9 crore voters, more than 4 crore have already filled out the enumeration form during the current revision campaign, indicating over 50 percent participation with 16 days remaining. He commended the Election Commission for its efforts, describing the process as “intensive and transparent.”
In response to the opposition's allegations regarding inaccuracies in the voter list and issues with EVMs, Prasad stated, “If the procedure is transparent and fair, what is the concern? There are numerous levels of grievance redressal, from BLOs to the District Collector to the Chief Electoral Officer.”
The former minister also clarified that individuals listed in the 2003 voter list do not need to provide new documentation. “Currently, most individuals possess valid documents such as bank statements, pension records, or school certificates,” he added.
Taking a jab at Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav, Prasad remarked that street politics would not influence a matter already under judicial review.
He further criticized the opposition on the topic of EVMs, saying, “They occasionally raise doubts about EVMs. Now, when a comprehensive and transparent revision process is in progress, and over 50 percent of the people have voluntarily submitted their forms, they still have complaints?”
Point of View
It’s crucial to approach the unfolding situation in Bihar with an unbiased lens. Ravi Shankar Prasad's critique of the opposition highlights significant concerns regarding the integrity of the voter list revision process. The dialogue surrounding the judiciary's role in electoral matters reflects broader issues of trust and transparency in our democratic system.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bihar Bandh?
The Bihar Bandh is a protest organized by the opposition to express their discontent regarding various political issues, including the voter list revision.
What are the allegations against the INDIA bloc?
Ravi Shankar Prasad alleges that the INDIA bloc is trying to pressure the judiciary ahead of a significant Supreme Court hearing concerning the voter list revision.
What is the voter list revision process?
The voter list revision process aims to update and verify the names on the voter registry to ensure accurate representation in elections.
How many voters have participated in the revision process?
Over 4 crore voters out of Bihar's 7.9 crore have already submitted their enumeration forms, indicating a high level of participation.
What are the objections raised by the opposition?
The opposition has raised concerns about inaccuracies in the voter list and potential irregularities with electronic voting machines (EVMs).
