Why Are Opposition Parties Protesting Outside Parliament Over the 'SIR' Drive in Bihar?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Opposition parties staged a significant protest at Parliament, voicing concerns over the Election Commission's Special Intensive Review in Bihar. They argue that this initiative threatens the voting rights of marginalized communities. With Assembly elections approaching, the political landscape in Bihar is fraught with tension as the opposition demands immediate action against what they perceive as an unjust electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- Opposition protests against SIR initiative.
- Claims of disenfranchisement for marginalized communities.
- Political tensions rise as Assembly elections approach.
- Allegations of bias against the Election Commission.
- Significant public concern over voter list integrity.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) On Tuesday, opposition factions gathered for a protest at the Makar Dwar of Parliament, challenging the Election Commission's Special Intensive Review (SIR) initiative in Bihar. They accused the central government of attempting to usurp the voting rights of marginalized and underprivileged communities.
Various opposition leaders united to voice their dissent against the SIR. Among them were Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, along with Congress figures Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and K.C. Venugopal, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, as well as RJD MP Misa Bharti. They displayed placards demanding an immediate cessation of the ongoing SIR activities in Bihar.
This demonstration arises amidst escalating political tensions in Bihar, which is preparing for its Assembly elections later this year.
Opposition representatives have claimed that the SIR operation is being executed in a selective and disproportionate manner, threatening the voter lists of marginalized groups.
Congress MP Imran Masood remarked to IANS, "This is a blatant assault on democracy."
RJD MP Manoj Jha expressed to IANS, "We are unequivocal in our demands. Our attempts to engage with the ECI went unheard, and even our court appeal was disregarded, seemingly on directives from others. Thus, we resorted to protest here in Parliament. This is a move to dismantle the democratic framework in Bihar."
In contrast, Shiv Sena MP Naresh Maske criticized the opposition, stating, "They are not interested in discussion. Their goal is to create chaos rather than contribute productively."
Previously, on Monday, the Election Commission presented an affidavit to the Supreme Court indicating that as of July 18, it had gathered enumeration forms from 7.11 crore out of Bihar's 7.89 crore registered voters, achieving a coverage of 94.68 percent.
The Commission clarified that this process involved accounting for deceased individuals, voters who have relocated permanently, and duplicate registrations.
Nonetheless, the opposition remains skeptical, labeling the SIR as a "stealth NRC" masquerading as an electoral roll revision.
They accuse the Election Commission of bias towards the BJP, claiming it is infringing on constitutional mandates by acting as a judge of citizenship.
Point of View
It is critical to maintain a balanced perspective on the ongoing protests concerning the SIR initiative in Bihar. The opposition's concerns about potential disenfranchisement warrant attention; however, the Election Commission's role in ensuring electoral integrity must also be recognized. The unfolding situation calls for a dialogue that respects democratic principles and the rights of all citizens.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Review (SIR) in Bihar?
The Special Intensive Review is an initiative by the Election Commission aimed at updating and verifying voter lists in Bihar, which has raised concerns among opposition parties regarding potential disenfranchisement.
Why are opposition parties protesting the SIR?
Opposition parties are protesting the SIR because they believe it threatens the voting rights of marginalized communities and may lead to large-scale deletions from voter lists.
Who are the key leaders involved in the protest?
Key leaders involved in the protest include Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Akhilesh Yadav, and Misa Bharti.
What are the accusations against the Election Commission?
The opposition accuses the Election Commission of bias in favoring the BJP and conducting the SIR process in a selective manner, undermining democratic principles.
What has the Election Commission reported about the SIR?
The Election Commission reported that as of July 18, it had collected enumeration forms from 7.11 crore of Bihar's 7.89 crore registered voters, achieving a coverage of 94.68 percent.
