India's Congress warns against voter‑list removals via SIR process

Political commentators and opposition leaders in India have condemned the use of the SIR (Special Integrated Revision) process to delete names from electoral rolls, calling it a breach of citizens' constitutional rights. Professor Fanaraj warned at a workshop in Udupi, Karnataka, that the government’s reliance on SIR to prune voter lists violates the Constitution and undermines the right to vote.

Congress leader Salim Ahmed echoed the concerns, stating the party will not tolerate any attempt by the Election Commission to strip voters of their fundamental rights. He alleged that the removal of names is being carried out under pressure from the central government, mirroring tactics used in previous elections in Bihar and West Bengal, and warned of street‑level protests if the practice continues. Both speakers highlighted the impact on minorities, SC/ST voters and other vulnerable groups, urging citizens to keep essential documents ready and to remain vigilant.

The controversy centres on the government's plan to revise the voter list based on the 2002 roll, which critics say contains numerous irregularities. The opposition contends that the process could disenfranchise large segments of the electorate and affect the implementation of various welfare schemes.