New Delhi/Patna: The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bihar has drawn sharp criticism from leaders within the Janata Dal (United) (JDU), a key constituent of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Both JD (U) Member of Parliament Girdhari Yadav and JD (U) Member of Legislative Assembly Dr. Sanjeev Kumar have voiced strong objections, alleging practical difficulties and potential disenfranchisement.
JD (U) MP Girdhari Yadav from Banka termed the Election Commission’s (EC) directive a “Tughlaqi decree,” asserting that the Election Commission lacks practical knowledge and understanding of Bihar’s unique socio-geographic conditions. “The Election Commission does not know anything about Bihar. They keep taking decisions,” Yadav stated. He highlighted the impracticality of the one-month deadline for verification, especially during the monsoon season when agricultural activities are in full swing. Yadav also cited personal examples, questioning how his son, living in America, could complete the required signature process within such a short timeframe. “If it was to be done, then 6 months should have been given. This is a Tughlaqi decree. This is my personal statement, not the party’s. I will speak the truth, you can consider it as anyone’s statement,” he added.
Concerns Over Migrant Workers and Train Services
Echoing similar concerns, JDU MLA Dr. Sanjeev Kumar from Parbatta in Khagaria, who has also served as a minister in the Nitish cabinet, raised questions about the SIR process. He reported significant deletions of names from the voter list in his constituency, particularly affecting the working class. “Many people’s names have been deleted in my assembly. Election Commission should give time for voter verification,” Dr. Sanjeev urged. He emphasized that a large number of people from his constituency work in other states and are difficult to contact within the given timeframe.
Girdhari Yadav also used the opportunity to question the central government, stating, “Bihar has a big role in the NDA government. Railway Minister should tell, has any train been run from Patna to Delhi, Patna to Mumbai, Patna to Bengaluru?” This query subtly links the state’s contribution to the central government with perceived lack of new infrastructure benefits.
