Is the Voter List Revision in Bihar Disenfranchising Migrant Workers?
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Synopsis
The revision of the Bihar voter list has ignited a political storm. With claims of disenfranchisement of the underprivileged and protests rising, JD(U) MLA Dr. Sanjeev Kumar expresses concern over the potential exclusion of migrant workers. What does this mean for Bihar's upcoming elections? Read on for the latest developments.
Key Takeaways
- Political uproar due to alleged voter disenfranchisement.
- Concerns raised by JD(U) MLA Dr. Sanjeev Kumar.
- Timing of the voter list revision criticized.
- Impact on NDA's electoral base highlighted.
- Importance of ensuring inclusivity for migrant workers.
Patna, July 23 (NationPress) The recent revision of the special voter list by the Election Commission in preparation for the Bihar Assembly elections has sparked significant political controversy. The opposition has initiated protests both inside and outside the Assembly, claiming a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise the underprivileged and individuals from certain caste groups to favor the ruling party.
In the midst of these protests, members of the ruling JD(U) have also expressed their apprehensions, transcending party divisions.
JD(U) MLA Dr. Sanjeev Kumar voiced serious concerns regarding the omission of names of workers and impoverished voters from the electoral lists in his constituency, Parbatta, located in Khagaria district.
He remarked, “While it is reasonable to remove names of deceased individuals, the exclusion of the poor and laborers is entirely unjust. Many are employed in other states and may be unreachable or unaware of the online application process.”
Dr. Sanjeev emphasized that the timing of this revision was ill-suited, proposing that it should have been scheduled during summer holidays, Holi, or Chhath Puja, periods when migrant workers typically return home, thereby ensuring their participation in the voter list.
Although he supports the removal of names of Pakistani or Bangladeshi infiltrators and deceased voters, Dr. Sanjeev cautioned that eliminating the names of those working outside Bihar would be “deeply saddening” and could severely affect the NDA's electoral base in the forthcoming elections.
“This issue transcends party lines; it concerns the rights of voters. It would be prudent to extend the timeframe for this process, particularly for migrant laborers,” he stated, mentioning that while he did not have an opportunity to address the matter within the Assembly, he is raising it within the NDA.
The intensifying protests from the opposition regarding alleged voter disenfranchisement underscore the increasing discontent within the ruling coalition about the implementation and timing of the voter list revision in Bihar.
Point of View
It's imperative to address the complexities surrounding the voter list revision in Bihar. While the need for an updated electoral roll is evident, protecting the rights of all voters, especially marginalized groups, remains paramount. The concerns raised by Dr. Sanjeev Kumar highlight a pivotal moment in Bihar's political climate, demanding a thoughtful approach from all stakeholders.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests regarding the voter list in Bihar?
The protests were ignited by allegations that the voter list revision was designed to disenfranchise the poor and certain caste communities, benefitting the ruling party.
Who expressed concerns over the voter list revision?
JD(U) MLA Dr. Sanjeev Kumar raised significant concerns about the removal of names of laborers and poor voters from the electoral rolls.
What did Dr. Sanjeev suggest regarding the timing of the voter list revision?
He suggested that the revision should have occurred during times when migrant workers return home, such as summer vacations or major festivals.
How might this revision impact the NDA's vote bank?
Dr. Sanjeev warned that the removal of migrant workers' names could lead to a significant loss of support for the NDA in the upcoming elections.
What is the broader implication of this issue?
The situation reflects deeper concerns about the rights of voters and the need for inclusive electoral processes.
