Controversial Voter List Revision Sparks Political Debate in India

Chhattisgarh BJP MLA Bhawna Bohra has lauded the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, calling it a crucial 'filtering process' aimed at bolstering democracy. She emphasized the initiative's importance, particularly as it rolls out across 12 states, including Chhattisgarh.

The Election Commission of India is set to finalize the revised electoral rolls on February 7, 2026, according to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The exercise spans diverse regions, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and West Bengal, among others. However, opposition figures voice concerns over potential disenfranchisement.

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee criticized the exercise as a ploy to exclude voters, threatening mass protests if genuine voting rights are compromised. Meanwhile, Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan warned of challenges to democratic integrity. In Bihar, Mahagathbandhan's manifesto has stirred debates, questioning its individual-centric promises.