Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP and former minister Kota Srinivas Poojary on Saturday, 24 May defended the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Karnataka, asserting that the exercise is designed to safeguard voting rights for genuine Indian citizens while excluding those residing in the country illegally.

What Poojary Said on SIR

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Poojary alleged that the Indian National Congress's criticism of the SIR process was “politically motivated” and called on the party to support rather than oppose the initiative. “This is a process intended to ensure that people residing in the country illegally or those who are not genuine Indian voters are denied voting rights, while genuine Indian citizens are given the opportunity to vote,” he said.

Poojary noted that individuals lacking proper documentation would be served notices requiring them to furnish proof of Indian citizenship. He added that one of the SIR’s core objectives was to prevent those who have “illegally entered the country and those posing a threat to India’s democratic system” from obtaining voting rights.

Controversy Over Case Withdrawals

Poojary also trained his sights on the Karnataka government’s decision to withdraw certain criminal cases, alleging that the move would benefit what he described as ‘anti-social’ and ‘anti-Hindu’ elements. “The government has withdrawn cases against those involved in incidents such as carrying cooker bombs, setting fire to police stations, and threatening devotees at temples. This will encourage people who glorify violence, engage in conspiracies, and intimidate others,” he alleged.

The state government has not publicly responded to these specific allegations. The remarks reflect a broader pattern of BJP-Congress friction in Karnataka that has intensified since the Congress returned to power in the state.

BJP Hits Back on Fuel Price Criticism

Responding to the Congress’s criticism of rising petroleum product prices, Poojary accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of “constantly searching for opportunities” to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre. He attributed the price rise to global factors, including ongoing conflicts. “Due to ongoing wars and international developments, fuel prices have increased globally. Many countries are facing severe economic difficulties,” he said.

Poojary added that the Union government was working to ensure stable fuel supply for Indian citizens by maintaining oversight of petroleum storage, distribution, imports, and production.

Political Context

The SIR exercise has emerged as a fresh flashpoint between the ruling Congress in Karnataka and the BJP-led Centre. Critics of the SIR process, including several civil society groups, have raised concerns about the potential exclusion of legitimate voters during the revision drive. The BJP, however, has consistently framed the exercise as a necessary measure to maintain the integrity of the electoral rolls. The debate is unfolding ahead of what is expected to be a politically charged period in the state.