Amit Shah Defends Special Intensive Revision, Accuses Opposition of Politicizing EC Process

Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists in Parliament on Wednesday. He spoke during a heated Lok Sabha discussion on electoral reforms. The minister firmly stated the House cannot debate the SIR process itself.He argued the SIR falls under the independent domain of the Election Commission of India. Shah claimed the opposition is creating unnecessary disruption. He said their objections are politically motivated.

Political Confrontation Halts Parliamentary Proceedings

Shah blamed opposition parties for two days of parliamentary ruckus. He said the government had asked to postpone the discussion. The request was for after the next two sessions.The opposition refused this proposal. According to Reuters coverage of the session, Shah explained the refusal stemmed from two issues. First, the opposition insisted on discussing the SIR, which is an EC matter. Second, they later agreed to discuss general electoral reforms instead.The Home Minister said the government immediately agreed to the second topic. He asserted the BJP-NDA alliance never avoids parliamentary debate. Shah described Parliament as the country’s “biggest panchayat for discussions.”His address faced repeated interruptions from opposition members. This triggered fiery exchanges between the treasury and opposition benches throughout the session.

Understanding the SIR and the Core Controversy

The Special Intensive Revision is currently underway in several states. These include West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. The process aims to review and update voter lists meticulously.The opposition has intensely criticized the exercise. They question its timing and implementation. Their concern centers on potential voter disenfranchisement.Shah offered a sharp political counterpoint to these criticisms. He claimed opposition parties are “worried” because the SIR will delete names of illegal immigrants. The Home Minister alleged these immigrants support opposition parties.He stated that people do not vote for the opposition, hence their anxiety. The discussion on this issue began in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. A total of ten hours was allotted for debate across both Houses of Parliament.

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The parliamentary clash underscores deep tensions over electoral integrity. The debate on the Special Intensive Revision remains a flashpoint between the government and the opposition.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?

The Special Intensive Revision is a detailed process run by the Election Commission. It involves a thorough review and update of voter lists. The goal is to ensure accuracy and remove ineligible entries.

Q2: Why is the Opposition criticizing the SIR?

Opposition parties criticize the timing and execution of the exercise. They express concerns that legitimate voters could be wrongly removed from the lists. They have demanded transparency in the process.

Q3: What did Amit Shah accuse the Opposition of doing?

Amit Shah accused the Opposition of politicizing an independent EC process. He claimed they are disrupting Parliament because the SIR would delete illegal immigrant voters. Shah alleged these voters traditionally support opposition parties.

Q4: Which states are undergoing the SIR currently?

The SIR process is active in 12 states and Union Territories. Notable states include West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. The EC is conducting the revision across these regions.

Q5: Can Parliament discuss the SIR process directly?

According to Amit Shah, Parliament cannot discuss the operational details of the SIR. He stated it is an Election Commission function, not a government one. The House can, however, discuss broader electoral reform policies.