Parliamentary Standoff: Government Firm Amidst Electoral Roll Controversy
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju asserted that discussions on any issue are welcome, except the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, overseen by the Election Commission. Opposition parties, alleging voter disenfranchisement ahead of Bihar elections, have disrupted Parliament sessions, demanding a debate.
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Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has reiterated the government's openness to discussions on most issues, as dictated by rules. However, he maintained that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, conducted by the Election Commission of India, cannot be debated in Parliament. Rijiju emphasized that SIR is a routine constitutional process.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament has been tumultuous, marred by protests against the SIR exercise in Bihar. Opposition parties accuse the exercise of targeting marginalized voters to sway upcoming assembly elections. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has labeled the government's actions as an attempt to manipulate voter lists.
The government and the Election Commission defended the SIR, citing its transparency and the comprehensive involvement of political entities and the public. Despite assurances that no voter names will be removed without due process, parliamentary proceedings have been repeatedly stalled due to opposition protests and demands for debate.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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