Punjab Assembly passes resolution against Special Intensive Revision

Chief Minister calls for independent investigation into alleged voter deletions

Chandigarh, 23 October (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday strongly opposed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, describing alleged “vote theft” as a serious threat to Indian democracy. He demanded that the exercise be scrapped and called for an impartial investigation into reported irregularities.

Addressing the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Mann accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of manipulating electoral rolls by allegedly adding favourable voters and removing opposition supporters.

He claimed that electoral irregularities had influenced elections in Bihar, West Bengal, Haryana and Maharashtra. These allegations were not independently substantiated in the statement. The Punjab Assembly subsequently passed a resolution against SIR through a voice vote.

Mann emphasised that every eligible citizen must have the opportunity to vote without discrimination or arbitrary exclusion.

“The right to vote is not a favour bestowed by any government. It is the foundation of democratic participation,” he said.

Referring to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s constitutional vision, the Chief Minister stressed that equality, dignity and political participation were essential principles of democracy.

He expressed concern over reported deletions from electoral rolls and demanded transparency, accountability and independent scrutiny of the revision process. Mann questioned the functioning of the Election Commission and raised concerns about reported disagreements over its decision-making procedures.

He also criticised the BJP-led Union Government over the functioning of the Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation, stressing that constitutional institutions must operate independently.

Warning against what he described as an “elected dictatorship”, Mann said electoral victories did not provide governments with the authority to undermine constitutional safeguards.

The Chief Minister also raised concerns about obstacles allegedly faced during his efforts to attract foreign investment to Punjab.

He maintained that political differences should not obstruct industrial development, employment generation and economic opportunities.

Referring to proposed international trade arrangements, Mann warned that Indian agriculture could face pressure from American commercial interests.

He insisted that any agreement affecting farmers must undergo transparent examination, with adequate consultation involving Parliament, state governments and farming communities.

Concluding his address, Mann appealed to democratic forces to unite in defending voting rights, constitutional institutions and democratic freedoms. He said protecting democracy was a responsibility owed to India’s freedom fighters, Dr. Ambedkar and future generations.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH