Are Voters Still Choosing the Government, or is the Government Choosing the Voters? Tejashwi Yadav Speaks Out

Patna, July 23 (NationPress) As political tensions rise in Bihar, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav has launched a fierce critique of the Election Commission and the NDA government.

In a candid interview with IANS on Wednesday from Patna, Yadav alleged that the ruling coalition is "manipulating" the current voter verification initiative (SIR – Special Intensive Revision) to "eliminate" genuine voters and "subvert" the democratic process.

He suggested that the Opposition may contemplate a boycott of the upcoming elections if the situation does not improve.

Interview excerpts:

IANS: There was chaos in the Bihar Assembly today. What triggered it?

Tejashwi Yadav: A very serious issue was being debated. Bihar is the cradle of democracy, and attempts are being made to undermine it. NDA members are resistant to any discussion on the SIR. We had been granted permission to speak, but Chief Minister Nitish Kumar interrupted me, so I ceased speaking. When he took the floor, it was evident he was unaware that our discussion was centered on the SIR. He diverted the topic. When the Speaker finally gave us a chance, NDA ministers continually interrupted us. They are determined to keep the truth about the SIR hidden.

IANS: Do you think the Bihar elections are at risk?

Tejashwi Yadav: It definitely appears that way. The Election Commission hasn't even conducted a press conference yet, even though the revision is ongoing. In the past, voters chose the government; now, the government is selecting voters. We had no choice but to approach the court as our inquiries are being disregarded. The EC is merely attempting to present inflated figures - claiming that 96% or 98% of revisions are complete - just to appease the Supreme Court. The reality on the ground is starkly different. This drive is being executed in a completely deceptive manner, and the Election Commission is acting under the directives of the BJP.

IANS: Are you contemplating a boycott of the Bihar elections?

Tejashwi Yadav: That option is certainly being considered. We will deliberate it within the alliance and gauge public opinion. If the BJP wishes to contest elections based on a fraudulent list, then simply grant them an extension and let them govern. What’s the purpose of holding elections if they are rigged? If the entire procedure is corrupt, then democracy holds no meaning.

IANS: Rahul Gandhi has claimed election manipulation in other states as well. Do you concur?

Tejashwi Yadav: Absolutely. In one instance, 70 voters were registered under the address of a single BJP worker in Bihar. We possess evidence of such manipulations. Even the Supreme Court has criticized the authorities in the Chandigarh case. Such irregularities are rampant everywhere.

IANS: You are calling for a comprehensive discussion on the SIR during the Monsoon Session. Why is this significant?

Tejashwi Yadav: As elected representatives, if our voters' names are being removed, what purpose do we serve? If we cannot safeguard our own voters, then what is the point of the Assembly? This issue must take precedence in discussions.

IANS: The Congress party has yet to make a formal announcement regarding seat sharing or endorsing you as the Chief Minister's candidate. What’s the update?

Tejashwi Yadav: Everything has been internally decided. We will soon make a unified announcement through a press conference. In the coming days, everything will become clear.

IANS: The NDA frequently brings up the issue of “jungle raj” under your party's previous administration. How do you respond?

Tejashwi Yadav: They lack real issues to discuss, no developmental agenda. These are exhausted leaders without accomplishments, only focused on preserving their positions. That’s why they keep reverting to “jungle raj.”

IANS: What’s your view on Nitish Kumar’s son Nishant potentially entering politics?

Tejashwi Yadav: If he joins, that’s acceptable, but that’s a choice for their party. Whether Nishant wants to join or Nitish Kumar wants to introduce him – or if someone is preventing him – only they can clarify. But truth be told, this is likely Nitish Kumar’s last election, and JD-U is on the brink of collapse. Only time will reveal who can restore it.