Voter Roll Revision Sparks Controversy Ahead of MP Elections

The Congress has criticized the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls in 12 states, including Madhya Pradesh, terming it a 'conspiracy' by the BJP to disenfranchise 50 lakh voters before upcoming elections. They argue the process unfairly targets tribal and minority voters, raising concerns about its transparency and implementation speed.

The Congress on Wednesday called out the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in 12 states, alleging it is a tactic by the BJP to disenfranchise nearly 50 lakh voters in Madhya Pradesh ahead of the assembly elections.

Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, Umang Singhar, expressed concerns over the 30-day time frame set for the exercise, asserting that the move raises severe questions regarding the intentions of the Election Commission. He argued the revision threatens voters' rights and is not a mere correction but rather a manipulation of democratic fundamentals.

Singhar highlighted that tribals, constituting 22% of Madhya Pradesh's populace, could be significantly disenfranchised due to limited document access. Citing the exclusion of Assam from the revision process, he questioned the lack of transparency and alleged biased intent behind the exercise.

(With inputs from agencies.)