BJD MP Raises Alarm Over Voter Deletions in Odisha

Biju Janata Dal Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra has sounded the alarm over the alleged deletion of 9.8 lakh voters in Odisha during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

In his letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Patra urged the Election Commission to launch an inquiry and halt any deletions until a full investigation is conducted. Patra pointed to a significant volume of complaints regarding wrongful deletions and emphasized the need for transparency and integrity in the process.

According to Patra, there has been a failure in mandatory field verification, with Booth Level Officers reportedly not conducting necessary checks. He also noted judicial oversight in similar cases in other states, which calls for system-wide re-evaluation and intervention. Additionally, Patra requested the establishment of an independent audit to address discrepancies and ensure protection against voter disenfranchisement.

(With inputs from agencies.)