NEW DELHI, India: Protests have spread across India over changes to voter lists, with opposition parties and civil society groups demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and an end to the ongoing revision process.
The demonstrations have been driven by concerns that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls could exclude millions of eligible voters.
Voter list revision
The controversy centres on the nationwide SIR exercise, which began in Bihar ahead of local elections and has since expanded to several Indian states and federally administered territories.
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Under the revision process, voters are required to provide documents proving their eligibility to remain on electoral lists.
The Election Commission says the move is necessary to maintain accurate voter records and ensure only eligible citizens remain registered. Critics argue that the documentation requirements could create difficulties for poorer communities and people who lack older official records.
Opposition accuses election body of bias
Opposition groups have accused the Election Commission of favouring Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the changes could remove voters more likely to support rival parties.
The issue gained attention during West Bengal’s state elections, where a voter list revision removed around nine million names, according to reports. Critics said the deletions affected eligible voters, while the BJP secured victory in the state.
Calls for transparency increase
The protests have also raised questions about the independence of the election commission. Reports have suggested disagreements among election commissioners over some decisions related to voter registration procedures and digital systems.
Protesters, opposition parties and civil groups are demanding an inquiry into the process, greater transparency in appointing election commissioners and the suspension of the current revision exercise.
The dispute is expected to remain a major political issue as India prepares for upcoming state elections.
