Electoral Roll Revision Sparks Political Tensions Across India

This week, the announcement by the Election Commission to conduct the second phase of the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has stirred up political discord across several Indian states and Union Territories. Scheduled to span from November to February, the revision aims to update voter lists in 12 states, including those poised for upcoming elections.

Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, have voiced concerns, suggesting that the poll body's intentions are dubious. They insist that the intended revisions could lead to the unjust removal of eligible voters, framing it as a threat to democracy. Pawan Khera, Congress' media head, went as far as labeling the exercise a calculated maneuver against democratic processes.

Contrarily, the ruling BJP has dismissed these allegations. They accuse the opposition of seeking excuses for anticipated electoral losses. The BJP argues that the SIR is necessary to ensure the cleansing of electoral rolls, preventing illegal voting and framed it as a defense of democratic integrity.