Controversy Erupts Over Voter Roll Revision in Bihar

Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi have criticized the Election Commission's revision of voter rolls in Bihar, alleging disenfranchisement and election theft. Amidst this, 52 lakh voters were reported missing or ineligible, sparking nationwide protests and political debates.

Shiv Sena (UBT) Member of Parliament Priyanka Chaturvedi voiced strong criticism against the Election Commission's move to flag 52 lakh voters in Bihar, claiming it promotes a false narrative around 'illegal voters.' Chaturvedi accused authorities of plotting to disenfranchise legitimate voters by demanding documents that many citizens do not possess.

The controversy has gained momentum with the Bharatiya Janata Party facing severe backlash from opposition parties over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi echoed these sentiments, alleging that an 'election theft' is underway in India. His remarks came amidst protests both inside and outside parliament against the SIR.

The Election Commission of India noted on Tuesday that 52.30 lakh voters were not found at their registered addresses during Bihar's electoral roll revision. These missing or ineligible voters constitute 6.62 percent of the state's voter base, with many deceased, relocated, or enrolled multiple times. The list was distributed to local party agents to verify voter status.

(With inputs from agencies.)