New Delhi, Dec 1 (NationPress) The Opposition escalated its criticisms against the government on Monday regarding the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Senior leaders from various parties have raised alarms over extensive voter deletions, irregularities, and alleged attempts at “vote chori.”

Prominent figures voiced concerns over the potential erosion of India’s democratic integrity, calling for an urgent debate in Parliament and a thorough investigation into the SIR process.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav delivered a powerful statement, asserting, “Since our nation gained independence, we have had the right to vote. Following the Bharatiya Janata Party's loss, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, there has been turmoil within the BJP. Democracy can only thrive if our voting rights are honored and not compromised. The fears surrounding SIR are manifesting. If a voter’s ballot is disregarded, how can their aspirations be realized?”

He continued, “A voter envisions their ballot being counted. By exercising this right, they are actualizing their dreams. If they are displeased with someone, they vote against them; if they support someone, they cast their vote in favor.”

Congress MP Pramod Tiwari emphasized the constitutional duty to maintain a just and transparent electoral framework.

He stated, “To safeguard democracy, any irregularities in the voter list or instances of fraud must be openly discussed. We are raising these issues, and a democratic reply is warranted. Discussions on electoral matters have previously occurred.”

Adding to the concerns, Congress MP Rajeev Shukla remarked that the current challenges with electoral revision are far too significant to overlook.

“The way the electoral process is being managed in our nation warrants attention. Genuine votes are being erased, and fraudulent voting is occurring. These issues regarding the electoral process require discussion,” he asserted.

The sharp criticisms emerged amidst a tumultuous day in the Lok Sabha, where the Winter Session faced multiple disruptions due to vocal protests from Opposition members. The House was adjourned shortly after 11 a.m. and again at noon, postponed until 2 p.m., as MPs surged into the Well, chanting slogans of “Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhor!”

Members of the Opposition accused the government of orchestrating a “conspiracy to erase genuine voters” through the SIR initiative affecting 12 states and union territories. They waved banners and demanded an immediate dialogue on what they termed a direct threat to India’s electoral democracy.

Deputy Speaker Sandhya Rai, presiding over the House, consistently called for order, assuring that none of the 20-plus adjournment notices submitted by the Opposition had been dismissed, and that the matter could be addressed if normal proceedings resumed. However, her appeals fell on deaf ears amid the uproar.

Before the protests overwhelmed the proceedings, the Lok Sabha managed to pass a few routine items of business. Nevertheless, as Opposition parties continued to link SIR irregularities to larger issues of democratic accountability, this topic is expected to dominate the session in the days ahead.