Kharge Demands Debate on Voter List Irregularities, Cites Threat to Marginalised Voters

By A Staff Reporter

Delhi: Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, has called for a detailed discussion in Parliament regarding alleged irregularities in the voter list during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision exercise. Addressing the matter in a public statement, Kharge emphasized the need to safeguard the rights of voters, particularly those belonging to marginalized communities.

“We want a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision exercise. Everyone has been continuously asking the Speaker, Chairman and the Government in a very calm manner that our votes should not be stolen,” Kharge said. He argued that parliamentary debate is essential not only to highlight alleged violations but also to offer constructive suggestions.

Kharge pointed out that concerns have been raised about the removal of names from voter lists, affecting communities such as minorities, Dalits, tribals, MNREGA workers, and migrant laborers. “Whose votes are being cut? Minority votes are being cut, Dalit votes are being cut, tribal votes are being cut... the migrant workers are being deprived of their rights,” he stated.

Referring to a statement made by then-Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, 2023, Kharge reminded the House that “this house is entitled to discuss everything under the planet,” reinforcing his plea for a meaningful debate on the matter.