Should Bangladesh's Election Commission Be Our Model? RJD's Manoj Jha Critiques Poll Body Amid Boycott Calls
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold critique of the Election Commission, RJD's Manoj Jha voices concerns about electoral integrity while highlighting the potential for a boycott in Bihar. His remarks reflect deeper issues within the electoral system, as the Opposition seeks to mobilize public awareness against perceived threats to democratic processes.
Key Takeaways
- Manoj Jha criticizes the Election Commission's integrity.
- RJD considers boycotting elections in Bihar.
- Allegations of systemic failures in the electoral process.
- 'Matdata Adhikar Yatra' aims to empower voters.
- BJP's defense highlights political motivations behind Opposition's concerns.
New Delhi, Aug 13 (NationPress) In light of the Opposition's vehement opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) initiative and increasing calls for a boycott of elections in Bihar, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha made a pointed remark about the Election Commission, suggesting it should not look to its Bangladeshi counterpart for guidance.
Jha's comments follow a statement from Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, who indicated that the party is contemplating a boycott of the forthcoming elections, citing widespread irregularities attributed to the Election Commission.
In an interview with IANS, Manoj Jha expressed, “Voters will choose to boycott them. Have you not seen the situation in Bangladesh? That is why we continuously appeal to the ECI with humility, urging them not to emulate the Bangladesh Election Commission. We ought to take lessons from Sukumar Sen, India’s inaugural Chief Election Commissioner.”
Addressing Tejashwi's allegations regarding the EC issuing duplicate EPIC numbers to individuals, Jha remarked, “Tejashwi Yadav mentioned a BJP leader with dual EPIC numbers. A similar case occurred with Vijay Kumar Sinha. This is not an isolated incident; it highlights a systemic failure within the Election Commission.”
“For instance, during the Lok Sabha elections, Bhikubhai Dalsaniya was registered as a voter in Gujarat. Now, as elections are approaching in Bihar, he is listed as a voter there. When elections occur in Bengal, he might show up as a voter there too,” he added.
Jha further responded to the BJP's accusations, which claim that the Opposition is only questioning the system out of fear of electoral loss.
“Recall the Chandigarh mayor embroiled in irregularities? Yet, the BJP attempted to justify that. Here, the inquiries are directed at the ECI, but the responses come from BJP, exposing their profound connections. We demand a thorough investigation into this relationship,” Jha told IANS.
Jha also commented on the upcoming ‘Matdata Adhikar Yatra’ led by Rahul Gandhi, set to commence on August 17 in Sasaram. This initiative will traverse 30 districts in Bihar across three phases, including Rohtas, Aurangabad, Gaya, Nalanda, and Patna, among others.
“This campaign goes beyond the yatra itself. It aims to raise public consciousness regarding what Gandhi characterizes as an assault on the Indian Constitution,” he stated.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the growing disquiet surrounding electoral processes in India. Manoj Jha's statements reflect a broader sentiment among the Opposition, which raises essential questions about electoral integrity. While criticisms against the Election Commission are valid, the focus should remain on fostering a constructive dialogue that enhances transparency and trust in our democratic institutions.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern raised by Manoj Jha regarding the Election Commission?
Manoj Jha criticizes the Election Commission for allegedly emulating the practices of Bangladesh's electoral body, urging it to maintain higher standards of integrity.
What prompted the potential boycott of elections by the RJD?
The Rashtriya Janata Dal is considering a boycott due to alleged irregularities and systemic failures within the Election Commission.
What is the 'Matdata Adhikar Yatra'?
The 'Matdata Adhikar Yatra' is a campaign launched by Rahul Gandhi aimed at raising public awareness about constitutional rights and mobilizing voter engagement in Bihar.
How has the BJP responded to the Opposition's allegations?
The BJP has accused the Opposition of raising concerns out of fear of electoral defeat, suggesting their questions are politically motivated.
What examples did Jha provide to illustrate his points?
Jha cited instances of individuals being issued multiple EPIC numbers as evidence of systemic failures within the Election Commission.
