Is the BJP Manipulating Voter Lists in Thrissur?
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Synopsis
In a heated press conference, Joseph Taget of the Thrissur DCC has accused the BJP of manipulating voter lists in Thrissur ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Serious allegations include adding voters from outside the constituency and irregularities in the voter registration process, raising questions about electoral integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of voter list manipulation by BJP in Thrissur.
- Claims include adding ineligible voters and bypassing procedures.
- Joseph Taget demands an independent investigation.
- Questions raised about electoral integrity ahead of 2024 elections.
- Concerns over the Election Commission's inaction.
Thrissur, Aug 9 (NationPress) The president of the Thrissur District Congress Committee (DCC), Joseph Taget, has made serious allegations against the BJP, claiming that the party is engaging in voter list manipulation in Thrissur as the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach.
In a recent press conference, Taget stated that 11 votes were added under the name “Bharath Heritage” at the Nettissery residence where the current BJP MP and Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi used to reside.
These votes reportedly included those of Suresh Gopi, his spouse, children, and other relatives, even though none of them were living there at that time.
“The property is currently owned by an individual from Mumbai, and no member of Suresh Gopi’s family resides there. They only come during elections to add their names to the voter list and cast their votes,” Taget asserted.
He also claimed that similar additions occurred as the revision process neared completion, with up to 45 votes at certain polling stations being questionable.
Taget further alleged that the BJP incorporated numerous voters from different constituencies and districts into various booths across Thrissur, ignoring the proper Form 6 procedure.
Many of these newly registered voters were said to be between the ages of 45 and 70.
Taget referenced prior complaints submitted to the then District Collector and Returning Officer, Krishna Teja, questioning whether these complaints had been escalated to higher authorities.
“We possess evidence that complaints were lodged in March and April 2024. The Chief Electoral Officer’s assertion that no complaints were received is inaccurate,” he remarked.
Taget condemned the Election Commission for not investigating these claims and for restricting access to the official voter list site, making verification impossible.
He alleged that the rules for adding voters had been relaxed, allowing ineligible individuals to be registered, with voters from Alathur and Thrippunithura constituencies being added to the Thrissur rolls.
Calling for an independent investigation into these allegations, the DCC president cautioned against personal attacks on complainants, stating that such actions threaten democracy.
“The irregularities in Thrissur's voter list were deliberate attempts to undermine the election,” Taget concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to report on the allegations made by Joseph Taget regarding voter list manipulation without jumping to conclusions. These claims raise significant questions about electoral integrity in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. It is essential for the Election Commission to thoroughly investigate these allegations to uphold the democratic process.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations against the BJP?
Joseph Taget has accused the BJP of manipulating voter lists in Thrissur, including adding voters from other constituencies and bypassing proper procedures.
Who is Suresh Gopi?
Suresh Gopi is the current BJP MP and Union Minister of State, mentioned in the allegations regarding voter manipulation.
What is the significance of the voter list manipulation claims?
These claims, if proven true, could undermine the integrity of the electoral process in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
What actions has Joseph Taget called for?
Taget has called for an independent investigation into the allegations of voter list manipulation.
How has the Election Commission responded?
Taget criticized the Election Commission for not investigating the complaints and for restricting access to the official voter list site.
