Is Democracy Being Attacked in Bihar? Opposition Voices Concerns Over SIR Voter List Drive
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Synopsis
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar has led to intense political debates, with the opposition accusing the government of undermining democracy by targeting marginalized voter rights ahead of elections. This article dissects the ongoing protests, the government's defense, and the implications for electoral integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing protests highlight political tensions in Bihar.
- Accusations of disenfranchisement against marginalized voters.
- Defenses from the ruling party regarding the SIR process.
- Significant number of names removed from voter rolls.
- Draft electoral rolls to be published soon for public feedback.
Patna, July 23 (NationPress) The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar has ignited a significant political uproar, as Mahagathbandhan leaders persist with their protests on Wednesday. They have accused both the Election Commission and the ruling government of deliberately targeting the voting rights of marginalised communities as the state elections approach, calling for immediate discussions in the Vidhan Sabha.
RJD MLA Mukesh Roshan stated, “Democracy is being murdered. The names of the poor, oppressed, and marginalised community voters are being eradicated from the voter list. It appears that the government is fearful and unsettled by the survey results it has received, which is why it is attempting to strip the voting rights of these vulnerable sections of society.”
CPI(M) MLA Ajay Kumar suggested that the timing of this revision is politically charged. “Our demand regarding the ongoing SIR process is straightforward. This task should be conducted through standard procedures. However, it seems to be occurring just as elections are on the horizon, indicating an effort to hijack the electoral process in Bihar under the guise of SIR, utilizing the Election Commission as a facade.”
Congress MLA Shakeel Ahmad Khan remarked, “This current shameless government, both at the national and local levels, displays a complete lack of dignity, self-respect, and conscience.”
RJD MLA Bhai Virendra emphasized, “The issues at hand have already been determined. Today’s situation mirrors that of yesterday... We are donning black attire today to symbolize our protest, aimed at safeguarding democracy.”
RJD’s Alok Mehta pointed out, “The government of Bihar rose to power through the votes of the people. Now, their votes are being deleted, and the government remains silent. The Chief Minister is silent too. That’s why we are voicing our protest against this.”
Conversely, JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha defended the SIR initiative, asserting, “The Election Commission is appropriately executing its responsibilities in Bihar. You must have seen in the newspapers that if someone has passed away, should their vote be fraudulently cast? If an individual’s name is listed in two locations, can they vote in both?”
On Wednesday, the Election Commission announced that approximately 52 lakh names have been purged from Bihar’s electoral rolls during the ongoing SIR, citing reasons like death or migration. Among the deletions, 18 lakh voters were confirmed deceased, 26 lakh had permanently relocated, and 7 lakh were registered in multiple locations.
As per the ECI's announcement, draft electoral rolls will be unveiled on August 1, 2025, including names from enumeration forms submitted until July 25.
Out of the 43.92 lakh voters not found at their registered addresses, 16.55 lakh were reported deceased, 19.75 lakh had permanently moved away, 7.5 lakh were registered at multiple locations, and 11,484 could not be located.
From August 1, Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) will solicit public objections and suggestions for additions, deletions, or corrections in the draft rolls, with a full month allotted for feedback and amendments.
Point of View
I observe that the ongoing protests in Bihar regarding the SIR voter list revision reflect deeper concerns about electoral integrity and representation. While the opposition's claims underscore the need for transparency and fairness, it is essential to balance these with the Election Commission's responsibilities. This situation calls for an open dialogue to ensure that all voices are heard and that democracy is preserved.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar?
The SIR is a process initiated by the Election Commission to update and revise voter lists to ensure accuracy and integrity, especially ahead of elections.
Why are opposition leaders protesting against the SIR?
Opposition leaders claim that the SIR is being used to disenfranchise marginalized communities and undermine democratic processes ahead of the state elections.
How many names were removed from the voter list during the SIR?
Approximately 52 lakh names have been removed, citing reasons such as death, migration, or duplicate registrations.
What is the timeline for the draft electoral rolls?
The draft electoral rolls will be published on August 1, 2025, including names from enumeration forms submitted until July 25.
How can the public provide feedback on the draft rolls?
Electoral Registration Officers will invite public objections and suggestions for additions, deletions, or corrections for a month starting from August 1.
