Kolkata, 26 March (H.S.) : CPI(M) state secretary Mohammed Salim on Thursday alleged that discrepancies in the voter list could make it impossible to conduct free and fair elections. Speaking at a press conference at the party’s Alimuddin Street office in Kolkata, he questioned the role of the Election Commission in ensuring electoral integrity.

Salim stressed that an accurate voter list is essential to safeguard citizens’ voting rights. He accused the Election Commission of failing to take adequate and responsible steps in this regard, adding that protecting democratic rights requires greater public awareness and protest on the issue.

He further stated that as a constitutional body, the Election Commission is expected to ensure the protection of voting rights before elections. However, he claimed that several irregularities have been observed in practice, raising concerns over the transparency of the process.

The CPI(M) leader also accused the RSS and the BJP of adopting an authoritarian approach and engaging in divisive politics, which he said goes against democratic principles.

Salim added that the party would soon announce candidates for the remaining assembly seats. He also emphasized the need for all political parties to come together for discussions on safeguarding democracy and protecting citizens’ voting rights.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh