Is Congress Right to Slam EC’s Special Electoral Roll Revision in Bihar?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Congress party has voiced strong objections against the Election Commission's latest decision regarding the electoral roll revision in Bihar. This move raises questions about the integrity of India's electoral system, particularly with the upcoming elections. Explore the implications of this decision and the party's concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Congress opposes the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar.
- Concerns about disenfranchisement due to the verification process.
- Criticism of documentation requirements for voters.
- Questions arise about the timing of the ECI's decision.
- Call for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
Patna, June 26 (NationPress) The Congress party has vehemently criticized the Election Commission of India's (ECI) decision to initiate a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, ahead of the crucial 2025 Assembly elections, labeling the action an "open acknowledgment" of the flaws within the nation's electoral framework.
In an official statement, the party remarked: "This announcement serves as a clear, unmistakable recognition by the Election Commission that not everything is satisfactory with India's electoral rolls, as repeatedly highlighted by the Congress party and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, particularly in Maharashtra."
The Congress described the SIR as a "cunning and questionable concept masquerading as a remedy."
It raised concerns that the process, which entails government personnel visiting each home to validate identity and residential documents prior to re-registering voters, represents a significant risk of disenfranchisement.
"Millions of Union and State government officials will now control and determine who possesses the correct documentation and who does not. This harbors a substantial risk of intentional exclusion of voters using state power," the statement cautioned.
The party further criticized the complicated documentation prerequisites, particularly the birth certificates of voters and their parents, branding them as "arbitrary, whimsical, and burdensome" for Bihar's estimated 8.1 crore eligible voters.
The Congress questioned the ECI's sudden change in approach. The party pointed out that on March 8, 2025, the ECI proposed a cleanup of electoral rolls using Aadhaar, which, while not flawless, was considered more feasible.
"What prompted the abandonment of the Aadhaar-based strategy? What transpired in just three months for the ECI to drop that and suddenly announce a comprehensive SIR in Bihar?" the Congress queried.
With the Assembly elections looming, the Congress expressed serious doubts regarding the timing of the ECI's decision, particularly given the Commission's refusal to address the party's concerns about discrepancies in voter rolls in Maharashtra.
"Considering the ECI's unwavering resistance to our long-standing requests and its dubious actions in the past, there exists ample reason to question the motivations behind the SIR initiative in Bihar," the statement concluded.
The party reaffirmed its steadfast opposition to the Special Intensive Revision in Bihar, asserting that it serves as a tactic to discard the current electoral rolls and establish an entirely new list just before the elections.
"We categorically oppose this initiative not only in Bihar but also concerning its potential implementation in other states. The integrity of the electoral process must not be compromised under the pretext of verification," the statement emphasized.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The Congress party raises valid concerns about the electoral process's integrity, particularly with the upcoming elections. The Election Commission's actions warrant scrutiny, and it is crucial to ensure that every eligible voter retains their right to participate in the democratic process.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The SIR is a process initiated by the Election Commission to revise electoral rolls, involving government officials visiting households to verify documents.
Why is Congress opposing the SIR in Bihar?
Congress argues that the SIR may lead to disenfranchisement and is a veiled attempt to manipulate the electoral process before the elections.
What are the concerns regarding documentation requirements?
The Congress criticizes the extensive documentation needed, particularly birth certificates, labeling them as burdensome for voters.
How does this impact upcoming elections?
With elections approaching, the timing of the SIR raises questions about its potential impact on voter registration and participation.
What was the previous approach regarding electoral roll cleanup?
The ECI had previously proposed using Aadhaar for cleaning electoral rolls, which was perceived as a more viable option.
