NEW DELHI: India is facing mounting controversy over electoral roll revisions after voting concluded in key state elections, with millions of names removed from voter lists, raising concerns about disenfranchisement in what is often described as the world’s largest democracy.
In West Bengal, more than nine million names were deleted from voter rolls ahead of the polls, while millions more were removed nationwide.
Authorities have maintained that the exercise was aimed at removing duplicate entries, deceased voters, and discrepancies to ensure electoral integrity.
However, several affected individuals say they were excluded without explanation, leaving them unable to vote despite possessing valid documentation.
Sadre Alam, a former soldier, said he was denied his voting right despite presenting multiple records. “It feels strange to think my country is not mine today,” he said.
Officials reportedly cited a “logical discrepancy” in his records, a justification he strongly disputes. Others, including elderly voter Suprabuddha Sen, said they were never informed of the reason behind their removal.
The controversy has intensified after polls concluded, with activists and opposition voices questioning whether the process disproportionately affected minority communities.
Reports indicate that a significant share of those removed in West Bengal belong to Muslim populations.
Residents also pointed to a lack of clarity from officials. “The BLO can’t even give us a reason,” said one voter, highlighting confusion around the process.
