Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday called on the central government to allow a parliamentary debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in poll-bound Bihar, terming it a matter of serious concern.
Addressing reporters outside Parliament, she said, “This (SIR exercise in Bihar) is a very serious issue. If this is happening in the voter list, then why shouldn’t we raise it? The government should agree to a discussion and move on.”
Her remarks came amid continued protests by the INDIA bloc in both Houses of Parliament, demanding a debate over alleged irregularities in the voter list revision.
Earlier in the day, Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till 2 PM after Opposition MPs stormed the well of the House during Question Hour, holding placards and shouting slogans. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the session following the disruption.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore submitted an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha, demanding a discussion on the SIR conducted by the Election Commission of India in Bihar.
In the motion, Tagore raised alarm over alleged mass deletions in the voter list, which he said have “disproportionately affected historically marginalised communities.” He also warned that similar actions could spread to other states like Assam and West Bengal.
“This House expresses deep concern over the mass deletion of voters flagged during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) conducted by the Election Commission of India in Bihar… and demands a comprehensive and transparent debate on the legitimacy, legality, and consequences of this exercise, which threatens the constitutional right to vote and undermines free and fair elections in India,” the motion stated.
The Opposition has demanded transparency and accountability over the revision process, particularly in the run-up to the Bihar Assembly elections, expected later this year.
