Is Kharge Disappointed with ECI's Conduct on SIR?
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Synopsis
In a critical review meeting, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expresses profound disappointment over the ECI's handling of the Special Intensive Review, urging for the integrity of electoral processes amidst rising concerns of partisanship.
Key Takeaways
- Mallikarjun Kharge leads Congress' review on ECI's SIR.
- ECI's conduct criticized for undermining electoral integrity.
- Congress vows to protect the electoral rolls from manipulation.
- Party faces challenges post Bihar Assembly elections.
- Vigilance among party workers emphasized during SIR.
New Delhi, Nov 18 (NationPress) The National President of Congress, Mallikarjun Kharge, hosted a detailed strategy session with prominent party leaders on Tuesday to evaluate the ongoing Special Intensive Review (SIR) being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) across multiple states.
This gathering included party General Secretaries, In-Charges, leaders from PCC and CLP, and Secretaries representing states and union territories involved in the SIR process.
In a statement shared on X, Kharge expressed that, "The Congress Party is firmly dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the electoral rolls. At a time when public trust in our democratic institutions is already fragile, the ECI's approach during the SIR process has been extremely disheartening."
He emphasized that the Election Commission must reassure the public that it is not acting as a "shadow" of the ruling BJP, which Congress has accused of manipulating the SIR process for political advantage.
"It must quickly prove that it operates independently of the BJP and remembers its constitutional duty to the citizens of India, rather than to a ruling party," Kharge stated.
"We strongly believe that the BJP is trying to exploit the SIR process for Vote Chori. If the EC chooses to ignore this, such negligence is not merely administrative; it constitutes a complicity of silence," he added.
Kharge assured that Congress workers, booth-level officials, and District, City, and Block Presidents would remain vigilant throughout the electoral roll review process.
"We will uncover any attempts, however subtle, to remove genuine voters or insert fraudulent ones. The Congress Party will not permit the erosion of democratic protections through the partisan misuse of institutions," he asserted.
This meeting occurs as the Congress faces mounting internal and external pressures following a significant defeat in the Bihar Assembly elections, where the party managed to secure only six seats.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of Kharge's statements regarding the Election Commission's integrity. The call for transparency and accountability reflects a broader concern for democratic values in India. Such scrutiny is crucial for ensuring fair electoral processes and fostering public confidence in political institutions.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Review (SIR)?
The SIR is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India aimed at ensuring the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls across various states.
Why is Kharge disappointed with the ECI?
Kharge expressed disappointment over the ECI's conduct, suggesting it has compromised its independence and is acting under the influence of the ruling BJP.
What measures is the Congress Party taking?
The Congress Party plans to maintain vigilance through its grassroots workers to safeguard against any attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
How does this impact public trust?
Kharge's statements highlight concerns about public confidence in democratic institutions, which can be adversely affected by perceived partisanship.
What was the outcome of the Bihar Assembly elections for Congress?
The Congress Party faced a significant defeat, securing only six seats, which has intensified internal and external pressures on the party.
