Congress criticizes Special Intensive Revision of voter lists

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has criticized the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, labeling the process as flawed and describing it as a tool used to undermine democracy. Kharge noted that the SIR process, which began in Bihar, has now reached Delhi.

Kharge raised concerns regarding the categorization of ‘VIP/marked voters’ by the Election Commission, questioning whether this violates the constitutional principle of ‘one person, one vote, one value.’ He argued that the distinction suggests certain votes may now be treated as more valuable than others.

According to the Congress leader, approximately 13.8 crore voters—roughly 14.61 percent of the 94.78 crore total electorate—were removed from voter lists across 31 states and union territories during the first three phases of the SIR. He also highlighted that in West Bengal, 93 percent of those who appealed against removal were successful, with 1,13,943 individuals set to be reinstated.

Furthermore, Kharge pointed out that high-profile figures, including senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani, the Foreign Minister, and the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, have received notices during this process, suggesting the system is affecting even prominent individuals.