The united opposition has accused the Modi government of evading a debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, implying that it has "a lot to hide". The opposition has announced a march to the Election Commission on August 11 to protest against the alleged manipulation of votes, particularly concerning the revision of Bihar's electoral rolls.
The INDIA bloc held a joint press conference at Vijay Chowk, following a demonstration in the Parliament complex. Top leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Akhilesh Yadav, Kanimozhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Supriya Sule, Sanjay Raut, Gaurav Gogoi, and Kodikunnil Suresh, participated in the demonstration to convey their determination to continue demanding a discussion, which has brought the Monsoon session of Parliament to a standstill.
The opposition has been persistent in its demand for a discussion on the SIR, alleging that the government's refusal to debate the issue indicates a hidden agenda. They claim the SIR exercise threatens to disenfranchise millions of voters in Bihar. Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien has accused the ruling party of fearing open discussion on what he described as “silent invisible rigging”.
The government has maintained that the matter is sub judice, as it is under the consideration of the Supreme Court, and therefore cannot be discussed in the House. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the government is ready for a debate on any issue, but it must be done following the rules. He also noted that matters concerning the Election Commission of India (ECI), an autonomous constitutional body, cannot be discussed in the House. Rijiju cited previous rulings, including one by former Lok Sabha speaker Balram Jakhar, that a constitutional amendment would be necessary to allow debate on the ECI's functions.
Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, has countered the government's argument by citing past rulings by the Chair, asserting that the Rajya Sabha is entitled to discuss the SIR issue. He referenced a ruling from July 21, 2023, where the then-chairman of the Rajya Sabha stated that "everything under the planet" can be discussed in the House, with the only restriction being the conduct of judges. Kharge urged Deputy Chairman Harivansh to convene the discussion immediately.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra questioned the government's reluctance to hold a debate, stating that the Opposition was "only asking for a discussion" and that the issue could be "easily resolved" if the ruling party was willing. DMK MP Kanimozhi also voiced concern over the government's refusal to entertain a discussion, emphasizing the importance of discussing electoral reforms for democracy.
The ongoing deadlock has disrupted Parliament proceedings, with both Houses facing repeated adjournments. The opposition has warned that the Monsoon session could be a washout if their demand for a debate on SIR is not accepted. Despite the disruptions, the government may proceed with passing crucial bills.
