The Lok Sabha is currently experiencing a stalemate due to the demand for a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s voter list. The government has maintained its stance that a debate on this topic is not permissible, citing the Election Commission’s authority and relevant regulations. Despite the disruptions and protests, the government and the Speaker have made it clear that the legislative agenda will continue.
In an attempt to bridge the divide, a proposal has been made to shift the focus to a broader discussion on election reforms, allowing for the inclusion of issues related to the SIR. This suggestion has been put forward by some opposition factions, referencing the precedence of past parliamentary debates on electoral reforms. The government, however, is firm on the condition that any discussion can only proceed with adherence to the rules and the approval of the Chair.
House proceedings are scheduled to recommence on Tuesday. It has been reported that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla informed opposition leaders that the House will resume its functions. The agenda includes discussions on the bills presented by the government. The opposition parties now have the choice to participate or abstain. Even if disruptions persist due to the SIR issue, the government intends to proceed with the passage of the bills.
The opposition is strongly protesting the revision of the voter list in Bihar. This controversy has extended from the state to the Parliament. The ongoing monsoon session witnesses continuous demands from the opposition parties for a parliamentary debate on the Bihar voter list revision. They are alleging that the SIR process is effectively stripping millions of people of their voting rights.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has already rejected the opposition’s call for a discussion on SIR, stating that the actions of constitutional bodies like the Election Commission are not subject to parliamentary debates.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission unveiled the draft voter list for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) on Friday. The released draft indicates the removal of approximately 6.5 million names across Bihar. The state currently has a total of 72.4 million voters. The deletions primarily include names of deceased, relocated, and foreign voters.