Suryaa Telangana Desk: Union Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Bhupathiraju Srinivas Varma, stated that the primary objective of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) initiated by the Election Commission of India is to protect the voting rights of eligible citizens while ensuring the transparency of voter lists.
Speaking at a meeting with intellectuals, educators, and business professionals at the BJP district office in Bhimavaram on Thursday, the Minister addressed misinformation and allegations made by opposition parties regarding the SIR process. He clarified that the revision involves removing the names of deceased individuals, those who have permanently migrated, and those registered in more than one location, in accordance with regulations.
Minister Varma emphasized that the process is conducted under the powers and responsibilities granted to the Election Commission by Article 324 of the Constitution and Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act. He stated that the BJP, as a political party, has no involvement in this process. He added that no voter's name can be removed without proper notice, the receipt of objections, and subsequent inquiry.
The Minister noted that this type of special revision has occurred 12 times since independence, with most instances taking place during Congress administrations. He stated that dual registration is not a correct practice and that correcting such irregularities should not be portrayed as the removal of valid votes.
Regarding the opposition's claims of the removal of 13 crore votes, the Minister urged the public to observe the facts. He criticized opposition parties for their inconsistent stance on election results in states where SIR has been implemented, arguing that changing positions based on whether results are favorable or unfavorable is detrimental to democracy. He also suggested that the public should examine court proceedings and orders related to the voter list revision with a realistic perspective.
During the event, the Minister released an awareness brochure regarding the SIR process. Attendees, including intellectuals and educators, expressed the view that the revision is a necessary process. The Minister called for public participation in the revision and urged citizens to reject false propaganda.
