Is the ECI Acting at the BJP's Direction? Tejashwi Yadav Speaks Out on SIR

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tejashwi Yadav criticizes the ECI for alleged BJP influence.
- 35 lakh names reportedly removed from voter list.
- Demands for transparency in the revision process.
- Calls out irregularities in the voter verification process.
- Plans to raise the issue at the INDIA alliance meeting.
Patna, July 17 (NationPress) Bihar's Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, has vehemently criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the current Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list in Bihar. He accuses the commission of acting under the influence of the BJP and undermining the democratic framework.
During a press conference in Patna, Tejashwi emphasized that despite numerous discussions with the Election Commission in both Delhi and Patna, officials, including Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, have neglected the concerns expressed by opposition leaders and have failed to conduct any press briefings to address these matters.
“This is the Commission's largest initiative, yet political parties have not been consulted even once. We suspect something is amiss,” he stated, asserting that the ECI is “eroding democracy” under directives from the BJP.
Tejashwi alleged that 35 lakh names have been removed from the voter list, a claim supported by reports from “sources” that the commission later verified in a press release.
He demanded clarity on these statistics, arguing that when names are deleted, the commission should publish and disseminate the details of those affected to guarantee accountability.
Further, he pointed out irregularities on the ground, claiming that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are failing to reach numerous areas, with forms being signed and submitted without proper verification.
He highlighted instances in places like Darbhanga, where forms are reportedly being completed in the presence of BJP leaders, stating he possesses video evidence of such occurrences.
Tejashwi warned that these actions jeopardize citizens' rights, including their access to rations, pensions, and welfare benefits linked to voter registration.
He accused the ECI of eliminating individuals’ existence by removing names without following due process, affecting not just voting rights but also eligibility for government schemes.
The RJD leader concluded that they will address this issue on all platforms, including the forthcoming INDIA alliance meeting in Delhi at the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and will communicate with political parties nationwide to raise awareness on this matter.