Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M.K. Stalin on Monday sharply criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) for its handling of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, raising concerns about potential voter exclusion in Bihar and other states. Citing the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, Stalin demanded greater transparency and voter-friendly measures, questioning why Aadhaar is not listed as an acceptable document to verify voter claims.

In a series of pointed questions posted on X, Stalin challenged the ECI’s processes following Chief Election Commissioner Gynaesh Kumar’s August 17 press conference, which he said raised more doubts than answers. “If fair elections are the ECI’s goal, why isn’t it more transparent? Why can’t Aadhaar be used to prove voter eligibility?” he asked. Stalin also flagged the “abnormally low” enrolment of new voters, particularly those turning 18, and questioned whether a database tracks their inclusion.

Stalin highlighted the risk of widespread voter exclusion in Bihar due to the SIR’s enquiry and appeal timelines, asking if the ECI would address these issues and consider practical challenges in other states. He also reminded the ECI of the DMK’s July 17, 2025, request to remove deceased voters’ names from rolls, as outlined in a May 1, 2025, notification, pressing for a timeline on this action.

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The Chief Election Commissioner had defended the SIR on August 17, dismissing allegations of double voting and “vote theft” as baseless and accusing some parties of spreading misinformation. Kumar emphasized that the revision aims to eliminate voter list discrepancies transparently, with stakeholder cooperation.

Stalin’s critique has fueled political debate, with INDIA bloc leaders echoing his concerns about voter suppression risks. Posts on X, including from @TNPoliticsNow, suggest growing distrust in the ECI’s processes, particularly in opposition-ruled states. As the SIR progresses, Stalin’s call for Aadhaar inclusion and streamlined procedures underscores the need for an accessible and fair electoral framework to ensure no eligible voter is left behind.

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