Trinamool Congress Raises Concerns Over Voter List Revision

Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose has voiced strong opposition to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, which she claims is an exclusionary exercise aimed at disenfranchising voters. Speaking to NDTV, Ghose accused the Election Commission (EC) of conducting this revision with the ulterior motive of targeting voters in West Bengal, which is set to hold elections early next year. According to Ghose, while the exercise is officially taking place in Bihar, its real target is Bengal.

Allegations of Disenfranchisement and Conspiracy

Ghose’s remarks come amid a heated political debate over the EC’s actions, with opposition parties labeling the revision as a “gimmick” designed to disenfranchise poor voters. The EC, on the other hand, defends the process as transparent and essential for ensuring fair elections and a robust democracy. Ghose argues that the SIR is fundamentally flawed, focusing on exclusion rather than inclusion, and accuses the EC of forcing citizens to undergo unnecessary citizenship tests.

Criticism of Aadhaar Card Policy

A significant point of contention is the EC’s stance on Aadhaar cards. Ghose criticized the poll body for not accepting Aadhaar as sufficient proof of citizenship for voter registration. She questioned why the EC had previously emphasized linking Aadhaar if it now deems it inadequate. This inconsistency, she argues, highlights another flaw in the SIR process.

Legal and Political Implications

The Supreme Court has expressed doubts about the timing and management of this extensive revision exercise, questioning its feasibility given the large population involved. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has vowed to oppose any similar efforts in West Bengal. The Chief Election Commissioner defended the revision, stating that it aims to remove deceased or migrated individuals from voter lists while ensuring all eligible voters are included.

Political Tensions and Future Elections

Ghose further alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is using this exercise as a political tool to undermine voters in Bengal and Bihar. She accused the BJP of attempting to manipulate electoral outcomes after losing previous elections in Bengal. As political tensions rise, all eyes are on how this controversy will impact upcoming elections in both states.