Should the Voter List Be Linked with Aadhaar for Transparent Elections?
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Synopsis
As local elections approach, Shiv Sena pushes for Aadhaar linkage with voter lists, aiming to ensure transparency and eliminate fraudulent entries. The party's delegation met with top Election Commission officials to discuss the feasibility of their proposal, emphasizing the need for a robust electoral process in a country facing challenges around voter identity.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Sena advocates for linking Aadhaar with voter lists.
- Calls for greater transparency in elections.
- Emphasis on checking for ineligible voters.
- Support for One Nation, One Election initiative.
- Concerns about Bangladeshi nationals on voter lists.
New Delhi, July 29 (NationPress) In anticipation of the upcoming local self-government elections, a delegation from Shiv Sena on Tuesday called on the Election Commission of India to link the voter list with Aadhaar numbers to enhance transparency and credibility in the electoral process.
The delegation also insisted on a comprehensive review of the voter lists to identify and eliminate Bangladeshi nationals.
This group included Industries Minister Uday Samant, Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai, MP Milind Deora, and former MP Rahul Shewale, who met with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Commissioner Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, and Commissioner Vivek Joshi in New Delhi.
On the topic of transparency in elections, Minister Samant indicated that discussions were held regarding the practicality of linking the voter list with Aadhaar.
He stressed the importance of verifying voter lists, particularly in major cities like Mumbai, where Bangladeshi nationals are allegedly living in significant numbers.
The Shiv Sena insisted that any such individuals found on the voter list should be removed.
Minister Samant noted that the ECI has taken a commendable step by engaging in discussions with delegations from various national and regional parties.
Guided by Shiv Sena leader and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the party's representatives conveyed their views to the Commission.
He reiterated Shiv Sena's endorsement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'One Nation, One Election' (ONOE) initiative and communicated the party's formal position to the Commission.
Previously, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde mentioned that apart from reducing costs, ONOE would promote national unity by synchronizing the election process.
"This initiative aims to significantly decrease election-related expenses and prevent policy paralysis that arises from overlapping elections. By conducting simultaneous elections, the nation can prioritize its long-term objectives for economic and social development, ensuring effective governance throughout elected terms," he remarked.
Shinde described ONOE as a potential "game-changer" for the country's democratic framework, ensuring that governance is not hindered by frequent elections.
He claimed it would improve decision-making quality and foster the political stability that is urgently needed.
In the meantime, Minister Samant rejected claims that the delegation's meeting was connected to the ongoing Supreme Court hearings regarding the party's bow and arrow symbol.
Point of View
This proposal should be weighed carefully. However, it must balance privacy concerns and ensure that all citizens' rights are protected. The nation's commitment to a fair electoral process remains paramount.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Shiv Sena urging the linking of Aadhaar with the voter list?
Shiv Sena believes that linking Aadhaar with the voter list will enhance transparency and credibility in the election process, helping to eliminate fraudulent entries.
What was discussed during the meeting with the Election Commission?
The delegation discussed the feasibility of linking voter lists with Aadhaar and emphasized the need for thorough scrutiny to remove any ineligible voters, including Bangladeshi nationals.
What is the 'One Nation, One Election' initiative?
'One Nation, One Election' is a proposal by Prime Minister Modi aimed at synchronizing elections across the nation to reduce costs and improve governance stability.
How does Shiv Sena view the ONOE initiative?
Shiv Sena supports the ONOE initiative, arguing that it would reduce election-related expenses and foster national unity.
What is the current status of the Supreme Court hearings related to Shiv Sena?
Minister Samant has denied that their delegation's meeting was connected to ongoing Supreme Court hearings regarding the party's bow and arrow symbol.
