Parliamentary Standoff Over Electoral Roll Revision in Bihar

The refusal of the government to hold a parliamentary discussion on the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar ignited tensions, as opposition parties insisted on debating what they allege could disenfranchise numerous voters.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the government's stance, stating that House rules prevent discussions on matters pending in the judiciary. He emphasized that autonomous institutions like the Election Commission are beyond parliamentary scrutiny.

Amid rising demands for a debate on electoral reforms, the opposition proposed this as a middle ground to resolve the standoff. However, the government indicated reluctance to engage in such discussions, leading to protests by MPs of the INDIA bloc and criticisms from figures like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

(With inputs from agencies.)