• Source:JND
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Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav on Monday strongly criticised the Election Commission's approach towards the ongoing Special Voter List Revision in Bihar, alleging a lack of transparency and calling it a potential threat to democracy. Addressing a joint press conference of the Mahagathbandhan, Tejashwi questioned the Commission's communication methods and document verification procedures.

He stated that instead of posting updates through social media or advertisements, the Commission should issue official notifications or press notes. He also demanded a proper mechanism to monitor the documents being submitted by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the revision process.

Tejashwi raised concerns about the exclusion of voters, especially those living outside the state. “Over four crore Bihari citizens live outside Bihar. Is the Election Commission trying to delete their names? It must clarify its intent,” he said.

The Mahagathbandhan also listed several key demands for the Election Commission:

-Daily real-time, assembly-wise voter revision data should be uploaded to the EC website.

-Aadhaar, MNREGA job cards, and ration cards should be accepted as valid identity documents.

-The criteria for volunteer selection should be made public, along with a complete list of appointed volunteers.

-Clarification is needed on the change in volunteer figures — from 1 lakh on June 28 to 4 lakh on July 3.

-The Commission should function with public accountability and not create distrust among citizens.

During the press conference, state Congress president Rajesh Ram raised objections to the powers granted to Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), warning that it could affect the impartiality of the revision process. He announced a statewide chakka jam (road blockade) protest on July 9, supported by all Mahagathbandhan parties and Rahul Gandhi, along with railway unions.

Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) chief Mukesh Sahni expressed concern over the impact of revision duties on teachers, stating it has disrupted academic activities. CPIM-ML state secretary Kunal accused the Election Commission of bias, suggesting the revision process was being manipulated in favour of the BJP-NDA. CPI-M leader Awadhesh Kumar labelled the drive a political conspiracy, while CPI(M) leader Rambabu called it a direct attack on democratic values.

Prominent leaders present at the press conference included Mangal Lal Mandal, Krishna Alavaru, Shakti Singh Yadav, Naval Kishore Yadav, Ejaz Ahmed, KD Yadav, Arun Kumar, and Rajesh Singh Rathore.

The Mahagathbandhan’s unified criticism reflects rising political tension around the voter list revision process in Bihar, with opposition leaders demanding increased transparency and fairness from the Election Commission.