Bihar Voter List Purge: Congress Alleges BJP Manipulation

The Bihar Congress party has leveled serious allegations against the ruling BJP, claiming widespread manipulation in the recent voter list revision. Over 6.5 million names have been reportedly removed from the electoral rolls, prompting concerns about voter suppression and undermining the democratic process.

Allegations of Systemic Removal

The Congress alleges that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its local booth-level agents are systematically removing names from the electoral rolls, targeting specific demographics and potentially disenfranchising a significant portion of the electorate. The party claims this is a calculated strategy to influence the upcoming elections and consolidate their power base.

Targeting Specific Voters?

Specific concerns have been raised about the disproportionate removal of names from areas traditionally known for supporting opposition parties. The Congress has demanded a thorough, independent investigation into the matter, citing evidence suggesting irregularities in the process. They argue that the sheer scale of removals warrants a detailed scrutiny to ensure fairness and transparency.

• Lack of Transparency: The Congress criticizes the lack of transparency in the revision process, making it difficult to verify the legitimacy of each removal.
• Targeted Demographics: The party suspects that the removals disproportionately affect certain socio-economic groups and communities.
• Intimidation Tactics: There are allegations of booth agents using intimidation tactics to discourage voters from updating their information.

The BJP's Response

The BJP, in response, has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that the revisions are part of a routine process to maintain an accurate and up-to-date voter list. They have claimed that the removals are based on standard procedures and that any discrepancies will be addressed. However, the Congress remains unconvinced, calling for an independent inquiry headed by a retired judge.

Demand for Independent Inquiry

The Congress's demand for an independent inquiry is not just about rectifying this instance but also about ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in Bihar for future elections. They argue that such widespread removal raises serious doubts about the fairness and credibility of the entire system. The party is mobilizing support from other opposition parties to pressure the Election Commission of India to intervene and launch a thorough investigation.

The situation remains tense, with the Congress vowing to continue its fight against what it calls a deliberate attempt to rig the electoral process. The outcome of this controversy will likely have significant implications for the upcoming elections in Bihar and the broader political landscape.