Is the Election Commission Misusing Its Authority Over Voter Additions?
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Synopsis
P. Chidambaram's recent statements highlight alarming discrepancies in the electoral process, particularly regarding voter disenfranchisement in Bihar and questionable additions in Tamil Nadu. His concerns echo a growing unease among opposition parties about the integrity of the electoral rolls ahead of significant state elections.
Key Takeaways
- Chidambaram criticizes ECI for alleged misuse of authority.
- 65 lakh voters at risk of disenfranchisement in Bihar.
- Concerns over 6.5 lakh new voters in Tamil Nadu.
- Opposition fears selective removal of voters.
- Supreme Court warns of intervention if mass exclusion occurs.
New Delhi, Aug 3 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram has strongly condemned the Election Commission of India (ECI), accusing it of abusing its authority during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. He has also expressed alarm over reports of significant voter additions in Tamil Nadu.
In a pointed message on the social media platform X on Sunday, Chidambaram stated, "The SIR exercise is becoming increasingly perplexing. While 65 lakh voters face the risk of disenfranchisement in Bihar, the reported addition of 6.5 lakh individuals as voters in Tamil Nadu is both alarming and evidently illegal."
He was referring to the ECI-led SIR initiative in Bihar, where a substantial drive for voter verification and rectification has sparked fears of extensive deletions, particularly impacting migrant workers. According to data released in July, approximately 65 lakh names have been reportedly excluded from Bihar's draft electoral roll.
Chidambaram claimed that migrant workers are being unjustly treated in this process, as it affects both their exclusion from Bihar and their questionable inclusion in other states.
"Labeling them as 'permanently migrated' is an affront to the migrant workers and a severe infringement on the electorate's right in Tamil Nadu to select their government. Why shouldn’t migrant workers return to Bihar (or their home state) to vote in the State Assembly election, as they traditionally do?" he added, emphasizing that many do return for festivals like Chhath Puja.
“For an individual to be registered as a voter, they must have a fixed and permanent legal residence. The migrant worker possesses such a residence in Bihar... how can they be registered as a voter in Tamil Nadu?”
He directly accused, “The ECI is misusing its powers and attempting to alter the electoral demographics and patterns of states. This misuse of authority must be challenged both politically and legally.”
The Special Intensive Revision in Bihar has attracted increasing scrutiny from opposition parties, including the Congress and the RJD, who are concerned that this initiative is being employed to selectively eliminate voters ahead of the forthcoming state Assembly elections.
The Supreme Court has permitted the SIR to continue while issuing strong warnings that it will intervene should any evidence of mass exclusion emerge. The court also advised the ECI to accept documents like Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards to enhance accessibility.
Tejashwi Yadav, an RJD leader, recently sparked controversy by alleging that his name was absent from the draft roll, prompting the ECI to clarify that his name is indeed included in the updated list and that no requests from him or other RJD leaders had been submitted to re-add names.
Point of View
The integrity of electoral processes must be upheld. Chidambaram's concerns reflect a broader sentiment among opposition parties that the Special Intensive Revision could potentially disenfranchise voters, particularly marginal groups. It’s essential for the Election Commission to ensure transparency and fairness in its operations.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The SIR is an initiative led by the Election Commission of India to verify and correct electoral rolls, ensuring accurate voter representation.
Why are voters in Bihar facing disenfranchisement?
Reports indicate that around 65 lakh names may have been removed from Bihar's draft electoral roll, raising concerns about the validity of the process.
What are the implications of voter additions in Tamil Nadu?
Chidambaram argues that the addition of 6.5 lakh voters in Tamil Nadu raises legal concerns, particularly for migrant workers who may not have a permanent residence there.
How has the Supreme Court responded to the SIR?
The Supreme Court has allowed the SIR to proceed but has warned that it will intervene if evidence of mass exclusion is found.
What are the concerns of opposition parties?
Opposition parties, including the Congress and RJD, are worried that the SIR is being used to selectively remove voters ahead of state Assembly polls.
