Opposition Parties Object to Bihar Electoral Roll Revision, Term it 'Votebandi'

A delegation of 11 opposition parties met the Election Commission to object to the ongoing intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar ahead of the assembly elections. They called it 'Votebandi' and expressed concerns about the timing and practicality of the exercise.

Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi highlighted the need for a level playing field for free and fair elections and criticized the new rule limiting the number of party representatives in meetings with the EC.

CPM's Dipankar Bhattacharya raised concerns about voters residing outside Bihar potentially losing their voting rights. The delegation compared the exercise to demonetization and emphasized the threat to democracy in Bihar.

While some participants found the meeting with the poll body not cordial, sources mentioned that all concerns raised were fully addressed by the Commission.

The Election Commission is conducting a special revision to verify the eligibility of electors, with the participation of political parties and volunteers assisting vulnerable groups.

According to the source: Times of India.