Is the Election Commission Acting as BJP's Agent in Bihar's Voter Verification Controversy?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, former SP MP S.T. Hasan has accused the Election Commission of India of acting as a 'BJP agent' during the voter verification process in Bihar. This bold claim raises serious questions about electoral integrity as the state prepares for upcoming Assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations against the ECI: Former MP Hasan claims the ECI is acting for the BJP.
- Voter verification controversy: Aadhaar cards deemed invalid raises questions.
- Concerns for marginalized: New documentation requirements impact the poor.
- ECI's defense: The ECI claims impartiality in the SIR exercise.
- Deadline approaching: The verification process must conclude by July 25.
New Delhi, July 9 (NationPress) Former Samajwadi Party (SP) MP S.T. Hasan has launched a fierce critique of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday, accusing it of functioning as an “agent of the BJP” amid the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in Bihar, which is gearing up for elections.
Hasan's pointed remarks followed the ECI's decision to deem Aadhaar cards inadequate for verifying voter lists in Bihar, igniting a new wave of controversy just before the Assembly elections.
“The Election Commission is acting as a tool for the BJP, assisting in the establishment of its government in the state,” Hasan alleged. “They aim to finish the re-verification of electoral rolls within a month, while shockingly declaring Aadhaar, a universally required document, as invalid for the process. What sort of justice is this?”
The former MP emphasized that, although documents like passports and ration cards—issued based on Aadhaar verification—are accepted, Aadhaar itself is being ignored. He expressed concerns that the commission is creating hurdles for the poor and marginalized to validate their citizenship.
“Now they require birth certificates, not just for individuals but also for their parents, to verify Indian citizenship. How many impoverished villagers possess their own birth certificates, let alone those of their parents? Virtually none in rural areas,” Dr. Hasan stated.
“Let me be clear, the Election Commission is facilitating the formation of a BJP government. This resembles a backdoor NRC. It appears that around 2 crore individuals could be deprived of their voting rights and ultimately their citizenship,” Hasan charged.
In response, the Election Commission, in a statement on July 6, clarified that the SIR exercise aims to ensure accurate electoral rolls by eliminating ineligible entries, such as deceased individuals, relocated voters, and duplicate registrations. The ECI asserted that the process is fair and does not target any particular group or community.
As per official data, by July 6, over 3.7 crore enumeration forms—accounting for nearly 47 percent of Bihar's 7.9 crore electors—have been collected since the revision initiative commenced on June 24. The Commission is confident that the process will be completed before the July 25 deadline.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the concerns raised by former MP S.T. Hasan regarding the Election Commission's role in the voter verification process. While the ECI maintains that its actions are impartial, the allegations highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding electoral integrity in India. As a responsible media outlet, we aim to present a balanced perspective on these unfolding events, ensuring that all voices are heard.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations against the Election Commission?
Former SP MP S.T. Hasan has accused the Election Commission of acting as an agent of the BJP and claimed that the commission's rejection of Aadhaar cards for voter verification is designed to disenfranchise the poor and marginalized.
How is the voter verification process in Bihar being conducted?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise is aimed at ensuring accurate electoral rolls by removing ineligible entries such as deceased individuals and duplicate registrations, according to the Election Commission.
What are the implications of the Election Commission's actions?
If the allegations are true, it could lead to significant disenfranchisement of voters in Bihar, particularly affecting marginalized communities who may struggle to provide the necessary documentation.
How many voters have been verified so far in Bihar?
As of July 6, more than 3.7 crore enumeration forms have been collected, representing nearly 47 percent of Bihar's total electorate of 7.9 crore.
What is the deadline for the voter verification process in Bihar?
The Election Commission aims to complete the voter verification process by July 25.
