Did Bihar SIR Chief Mukesh Sahani Really Threaten BLOs?
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Synopsis
In a recent turn of events, Mukesh Sahani, the VIP chief, attempts to clarify his earlier remarks, which were perceived as threats against BLOs. He advocates for bonuses for BLOs while raising concerns about the voter verification process. This political drama unfolds in Bihar, stirring reactions from various parties.
Key Takeaways
- Mukesh Sahani seeks to clarify his controversial statements.
- He advocates for BLOs to receive bonuses for their efforts.
- Concerns about the voter verification process are raised.
- Political backlash from various parties highlights the tense climate.
- Timing of the Special Intensive Revision is questioned.
Patna, July 16 (NationPress) The chief of the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), Mukesh Sahani, on Wednesday sought to clarify his previously controversial comments regarding alleged threats of violence directed at the residences of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), asserting that his words were misinterpreted.
In a surprising shift, he encouraged both the Centre and state administrations to compensate the BLOs with a bonus for their additional efforts, demonstrating a reversal from his earlier provocative stance.
During an interview with IANS, Sahani emphasized that the people of Bihar hold their voting rights in high regard, and if they perceive a denial of these rights following the voter verification initiative and the release of new electoral rolls, it could escalate into a serious crisis.
“BLOs are central to the processes of distributing, collecting, and uploading enumeration forms onto the Election Commission of India (ECI) portal. Consequently, they are likely to face the wrath of the public, rather than higher officials, potentially leading to uncontrollable situations,” he articulated.
Sahani, who once held a ministerial position in the Bihar government, criticized the ECI’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR), labeling the entire operation as flawed and ineffective. He argued that conducting such an intensive initiative within a limited timeframe is unrealistic.
He further questioned the timing of the SIR, stating, “This should have been carried out either before the Lok Sabha elections or following the upcoming Assembly elections. What message is the ECI conveying by launching such an extensive campaign in such a brief period?”
“Were the Lok Sabha elections not suitable? Should elected representatives be disqualified due to erroneous voter ID cards?” he challenged.
Sahani asserted that BLOs are under significant stress and working long hours, warranting increased enumeration efforts and a one-month bonus.
His previous comments ignited considerable political backlash in Bihar, with numerous parties, including the BJP and JD(U), condemning his statements as provocative and incendiary.
A BJP leader in Bihar remarked that the VIP is a non-factor in the state’s political landscape, resorting to such tactics to gain public attention, while JD(U) termed it a reaction to their alliance partner (the RJD).
The VIP chief’s remarks that instigated outrage included, “If citizens are stripped of their voting rights, chaos will ensue, becoming unmanageable even for the Election Commission. Those affected by this unjust and biased policy will storm BLOs’ residences and may even resort to arson. The ECI will bear the responsibility for all of this.”
Point of View
It's imperative to approach Mukesh Sahani's remarks with a balanced lens. His clarification reflects the sensitive political climate in Bihar, where electoral issues are paramount. While his comments may have stirred controversy, they highlight genuine concerns over voter rights and the pressures faced by BLOs, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mukesh Sahani say about BLOs?
Mukesh Sahani clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted and called for additional support for BLOs, including bonuses for their hard work.
Why did Sahani criticize the ECI's SIR?
He deemed the Special Intensive Revision process faulty and questioned its timing, suggesting it should have been conducted before or after significant elections.
What was the political reaction to Sahani's comments?
His statements triggered backlash from various political parties, including the BJP and JD(U), who labeled them as provocative.
