Is the Opposition’s Criticism of SIR a Sign of Fear of Bihar Poll Defeat?
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Synopsis
In Bihar, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal defends the Election Commission's SIR process against Opposition claims, suggesting their protests signal an impending defeat in upcoming assembly elections. Pal emphasizes the importance of maintaining electoral integrity while addressing concerns over voter eligibility.
Key Takeaways
- The SIR process aims to ensure electoral integrity.
- Claims of disenfranchisement are politically motivated, according to BJP.
- Over 35 lakh names may be removed, but many are ineligible.
- The right to vote is for eligible Indian citizens only.
- The controversy highlights a fierce political battle in Bihar.
New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) BJP MP Jagdambika Pal on Tuesday accused the Opposition of raising unfounded concerns regarding the Election Commission of India’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, asserting that their outcry arises from a looming defeat in the state assembly elections.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) recently disclosed that during the ongoing SIR process in Bihar, a substantial number of ineligible voters—mainly from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar—were identified. This revelation sparked significant backlash from opposition parties, particularly Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
On July 9, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, along with RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav and other INDIA bloc allies, spearheaded a protest march in Patna denouncing the SIR. They contended that the electoral revision initiative was a tactic to disenfranchise marginalized voters ahead of Bihar’s assembly elections set for later this year.
Speaking to IANS, Jagdambika Pal dismissed these claims as politically motivated.
“The opposition is questioning the ECI solely because they sense their defeat approaching. The criticism from the Congress party is misguided. The ECI is merely fulfilling its obligation to verify voter eligibility—including those who have recently turned 18, removing deceased voters, and updating rolls for citizens who have changed residences,” he emphasized.
Pal further asserted that the right to vote is exclusively reserved for eligible Indian citizens living in Bihar.
“The ECI is ensuring the accuracy and validity of the electoral rolls. Those who are not eligible—non-citizens or deceased individuals—are justly being removed. The Opposition is frustrated and is blaming the ECI instead of confronting their electoral realities.”
Responding to reports that over 35 lakh names could be expunged from Bihar’s electoral rolls during the SIR process, Pal clarified, “There aren’t 35 lakh valid voters being removed. These are names of individuals who should never have been included—non-citizens, the deceased, and those who have relocated to different districts. The ECI is not targeting anyone; it is simply executing its constitutional mandate.”
In another context, the BJP MP addressed remarks by Congress leader Udit Raj concerning the Indian Air Force’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who recently participated in a space mission. Udit Raj had suggested that a representative from the SC/ST/OBC communities should have been selected for the mission.
“Such statements reflect a lack of understanding. Space missions necessitate extensive scientific training, and there is no reservation in space travel. Group Captain Shukla was chosen based on merit and was even trained in the US. We should all take pride in any Indian who ventures into space, regardless of their background,” Pal asserted.
As Bihar prepares for crucial assembly elections later this year, the controversy surrounding the SIR has underscored the fierce political battle that lies ahead. While Opposition parties accuse of voter suppression, the ruling BJP insists that electoral integrity is of utmost importance.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize both the necessity of electoral integrity and the concerns raised by the Opposition. However, the focus should remain on ensuring a fair electoral process while addressing valid grievances without descending into political blame games.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The SIR is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India to update electoral rolls, ensuring that only eligible voters are registered.
Why did the Opposition criticize the SIR in Bihar?
The Opposition argues that the SIR may disenfranchise marginalized voters, suggesting it is a tactic to manipulate the upcoming assembly elections.
How many names are expected to be removed from the electoral rolls in Bihar?
Reports suggest that over 35 lakh names might be deleted, but these include ineligible voters such as non-citizens and deceased individuals.
What is the BJP's stance on the SIR process?
The BJP, represented by Jagdambika Pal, defends the SIR as a necessary step to maintain the integrity of electoral rolls and ensure that only eligible voters participate.
What implications does the SIR have for the upcoming Bihar elections?
The SIR process may significantly impact voter eligibility and the electoral landscape, with potential consequences for the political fortunes of various parties.
