Why Are Opposition Parties Protesting in Bihar's Monsoon Session?
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Synopsis
Opposition protests erupt in Bihar's monsoon session as they don black attire against the government's voter list revision. With claims of manipulation and suppression, tensions rise as the Deputy CM counters allegations, asserting transparency in the process. Discover the political dynamics at play in this crucial legislative assembly.
Key Takeaways
- Opposition parties protest against the government's voter list revision.
- Claims of manipulation and suppression of marginalized votes are prominent.
- Deputy CM asserts transparency in the re-verification process.
- The political landscape is tense ahead of the upcoming elections.
- Key bills are sought to be passed during this crucial session.
Patna, July 22 (NationPress) On the second day of the Bihar Legislative Assembly's monsoon session, opposition parties conducted significant protests clad in black attire against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list.
The opposition, spearheaded by the Leader of Opposition in the Council, Rabri Devi, claimed, “The government is manipulating SIR to alter the voter list. This is a ploy to stifle the votes of backward and marginalized communities under the pretense of verification,” Rabri Devi stated.
During the demonstration, chants were heard like, “Cease the attempts to hijack elections; SIR is merely a pretext; the intent is to eliminate voting.”
Members of the Grand Alliance arrived at the Council in black clothing, brandishing posters and placards while voicing slogans in the portico before the session commenced.
In response, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary rebutted the opposition’s claims, asserting, “The Election Commission has clarified that no citizen—be they poor, backward, Dalit, or general—has been unjustly removed from the voter list. To date, we have recorded a participation rate of 98 percent in the re-verification of 19 lakh deceased voters, 20 lakh migrated citizens, and 8 lakh duplicate voters have been identified.”
He added, “The SIR process will conclude on July 26, after which the draft voter list will be released, allowing all parties to submit objections transparently.”
Samrat Chaudhary mocked the opposition’s protest in black attire, commenting, “Shani has overshadowed them; that’s why they are wandering around in black.”
He accused the opposition of misleading the public and referred to previous political comments on illegal voters to rationalize the verification initiative, citing that “over 120 percent Aadhaar registration in districts like Kishanganj necessitates investigation.”
When asked about rumors of CM Nitish Kumar being considered for Vice President, Samrat Chaudhary stated, “That decision rests with the BJP and NDA leadership.”
This monsoon session holds significant political importance, with the government aiming to pass essential bills ahead of the upcoming elections.
The opposition is aggressively challenging the government on issues of law and order, voter list revision, and unemployment during this five-day session.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the situation unfolding in Bihar's monsoon session. The protests reflect deep-rooted concerns among opposition parties regarding electoral integrity and the potential disenfranchisement of vulnerable communities. It is crucial for the government to address these apprehensions transparently and uphold democratic processes.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests in Bihar's monsoon session?
The protests were sparked by opposition parties' concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, which they allege could manipulate electoral outcomes.
Who is leading the opposition in these protests?
The opposition protests are led by Rabri Devi, the Leader of Opposition in the Council.
What are the government's claims regarding the voter list revision?
The government claims that the Election Commission has ensured no unfair removals from the voter list and that a high participation rate in the re-verification process reflects transparency.
