UP Congress Leader Accuses Election Commission of Illegal Voter Roll Revision
In a significant development that has stirred political circles, Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai launched a scathing attack on Friday, alleging that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state was conducted illegally. Rai asserted that this controversial exercise has severely undermined democratic rights and raised profound questions about the integrity of the electoral process.
RTI Revelation Exposes Lack of Official Records
Rai based his explosive allegations on information obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by prominent activist Anjali Bhardwaj. According to the RTI response, the Election Commission of India maintains no official records or formal orders related to the Special Intensive Revision exercise. "If no such order exists, under whose direction was this exercise conducted?" Rai demanded, strongly hinting at potential political pressure influencing the electoral roll revision process.
Sharp Decline in Voter Numbers Raises Alarm
The Congress leader presented compelling statistical evidence to support his claims. He pointed out that Uttar Pradesh's eligible population above 18 years exceeds 16 crore, with local body electoral rolls reflecting similar substantial numbers. "How has the voter list dropped to 13.69 crore after SIR, when it should have naturally increased?" Rai questioned, highlighting the dramatic reduction of approximately 2.31 crore voters from the expected count.
Ground-Level Pressure on Election Officials
Rai further alleged that booth-level officers (BLOs) faced undue pressure during the revision process, creating extreme stress and compromising the integrity of their work. This alleged pressure on ground-level officials raises serious concerns about the fairness and transparency of the entire electoral roll preparation exercise.
Congress Demands Immediate Investigation and Action
Calling for a thorough and impartial probe into the matter, the UP Congress president demanded that all eligible voters be properly included before any upcoming elections. As an alternative solution, Rai suggested utilizing existing panchayat and urban body electoral rolls, which he claims more accurately reflect the state's actual voting population.
This controversy emerges at a critical juncture in Uttar Pradesh's political landscape, with the integrity of electoral processes being fundamental to democratic functioning. The allegations have sparked widespread debate about electoral transparency and the mechanisms governing voter registration in India's most populous state.
