Is ECI's Conduct Lawful and Democratic? BJP's Rituraj Sinha Critiques Tejashwi Yadav's Boycott Threat

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rituraj Sinha defends the ECI's actions as lawful and constitutional.
- Allegations against BJP leaders regarding voter IDs are contested by Sinha.
- Importance of maintaining integrity in electoral processes is emphasized.
- Directive on hoisting the Tricolour promotes unity and patriotism.
- Democratic institutions must be respected for a healthy political environment.
Patna, Aug 13 (NationPress) BJP leader Rituraj Sinha has strongly criticized Tejashwi Yadav, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, for his repeated threats to boycott the upcoming state elections.
Sinha emphasized that the actions of the Election Commission of India (ECI) are entirely lawful, democratic, and constitutional, and should be respected as part of the regular electoral framework.
In an interview with IANS, Rituraj Sinha stated, "In a democratic setup, under Article 326 and the Representation of the People Act, the Election Commission ensures the integrity of the electoral roll. Those advocating for a boycott are misaligned with democratic principles, attempting to mislead and confuse the electorate through misinformation."
He further scrutinized the political intentions behind such declarations.
"I urge the public to reflect -- during the tenure of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, the process of Special Summary Revision (SSR) was neglected. We did not oppose it back then. However, when the NDA government assumed power in 2005, the electoral process progressed as usual. This is the established law of the land," he stated to IANS.
Responding to allegations by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) regarding several BJP leaders holding multiple EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) numbers, Sinha provided a pointed rebuttal.
"Let me clarify -- Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya is a citizen of India residing in Patna. He transferred his voter ID from Gujarat to Patna. This is not illegal or questionable. The true issue is that Tejashwi Yadav himself has two EPIC numbers and two voter IDs. The Election Commission issued him a notice, which he ignored. He even submitted a nomination for the 2020 elections using a falsified ID. Before casting accusations, Tejashwi Yadav must account for his own conduct. When individuals who claim to uphold the Constitution attack constitutional bodies, it mirrors a thief berating a police officer," he added.
BJP leader Sinha also addressed a separate matter regarding a recent directive from Chhattisgarh Waqf Board Chairman, Salim Raj, which mandated that all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs in the state hoist the Tricolour outside their main gates on August 15 to celebrate Independence Day.
"It is entirely appropriate that the dignity of the Tricolour be upheld at every institution in India. Everyone is expected to participate, and this should happen," he stated.
The circular issued on Monday read: "On this auspicious national festival, the national flag should be displayed at the main entrance of all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs in Chhattisgarh. Acknowledge the significance of Independence Day and uphold its honor by showcasing patriotism, unity, and brotherhood."