How can democracy thrive? Mann calls on ECI to tackle SIR issues
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Ahmedabad, Jan 29 (NationPress) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take definitive and transparent actions in response to concerns raised regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), cautioning that insufficient clarity may jeopardize public confidence in the democratic framework.
Addressing the media after his arrival in Ahmedabad, Mann emphasized that if any political entity, whether national or state-based, harbors doubts regarding the SIR, it is imperative for the ECI to openly respond to those issues.
"The Election Commission must refrain from imposing conditions or issuing pressure-laden directives. A transparent and credible review of the entire process should be conducted to ensure public satisfaction," he stated.
Mann remarked, "If the SIR continues to fabricate a false electorate, how can democracy endure? This poses a significant threat to our democratic values."
The Chief Minister also touched upon issues concerning the University Grants Commission (UGC), asserting that if there are queries, a thorough and satisfactory evaluation should be performed.
"The UGC oversees substantial examinations and large universities. When issues arise regarding educational institutions, the Election Commission, or other constitutional bodies, it is their obligation to provide clear and satisfactory responses," he mentioned.
Upon his arrival in Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening, Mann was welcomed by Gujarat Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) President Isudan Gadhvi, party MLAs Gopal Italia and Chaitar Vasava, along with the party's state organization general secretary Manoj Sorathiya.
Discussing the political landscape in Gujarat, Mann observed that AAP's organizational presence in the state has significantly strengthened, with public gatherings being conducted in villages and regular events occurring in major urban areas.
"The citizens of Gujarat are yearning for transformation. It is evident that they are seeking a fresh approach," he remarked.
Commenting on the Visavadar by-election, he characterized Gopal Italia's substantial victory as a "very encouraging sign" for the AAP.
Mann expressed that AAP aims to extend the education and healthcare framework pioneered by party leader Arvind Kejriwal, which has been successfully implemented in Delhi and Punjab, to Gujarat as well.
"We aspire to bring this model to every household in the state," he stated.
He also extended condolences for the tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in the plane crash on Wednesday morning.
"We pray for the departed soul's peace and pay our respects," Mann expressed.
Addressing issues pertinent to Punjab, Mann remarked that the state has made significant sacrifices for the nation and played a crucial role during the Green Revolution when the country faced food scarcity.
Despite this, he noted that Punjab does not possess its own capital.
He reiterated that Chandigarh, which is currently the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, rightfully belongs to Punjab and mentioned that the lack of a separate capital and High Court has compounded administrative and judicial challenges.