INDIA Bloc to stage protest in Agartala on Oct 30; Demands withdrawal of SIR Exercise & removal of Chief Election Commissioner

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The Tripura unit of the INDIA Bloc has announced a major protest programme in Agartala on October 30, pressing for the withdrawal of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar among a set of four demands. The opposition alliance plans to submit a memorandum to the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Tripura, following a rally in the city.

Addressing a press conference at the Agartala Press Club, CPI(M) State Secretary Jitendra Chaudhury said leaders, workers and supporters of the INDIA Bloc would assemble at Orient Chowmuhani at 11 am before marching to the CEO's office. He alleged that the BJP-led Central Government was attempting to weaken democratic institutions and raised concerns over what he described as the declining neutrality of the Election Commission.

Chaudhury expressed apprehension regarding the ongoing SIR process, claiming that a large number of genuine voters could face exclusion from electoral rolls. Referring to concerns being discussed in political circles, he alleged that a substantial number of voters in Tripura could be affected if proper safeguards are not ensured. He argued that the issue has generated anxiety among opposition parties over the protection of voting rights and the integrity of the electoral process.

According to him, the INDIA Bloc's four-point charter of demands includes the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, withdrawal of the SIR process, repeal or review of provisions which, according to the opposition, affect the independence of the Election Commission, and opposition to legal protections granted to the Chief Election Commissioner.

Emphasising the need for a united opposition response, Chaudhury said the proposed agitation forms part of a broader campaign aimed at protecting democratic values and constitutional institutions.

Joining the criticism, Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee President Ashish Kumar Saha also voiced concern over the functioning of the Election Commission. He alleged that important decisions were being taken without adequate consideration of other Election Commissioners and questioned the transparency of certain aspects of the electoral process.

Saha referred to issues raised nationally regarding voter lists and election-related procedures, claiming that recent public discussions and media reports had intensified the debate surrounding electoral revisions. He further alleged that changes in enrolment procedures and documentation requirements could adversely affect sections of voters and potentially influence electoral outcomes.

The Congress leader also raised concerns over alleged irregularities in voter registration, including reports of unusually high numbers of voters registered at certain addresses and instances of duplicate entries. He maintained that such allegations, if not addressed, could undermine confidence in the electoral system and impact the conduct of free and fair elections.

Stressing that the planned agitation is not aimed at securing political advantage for any particular party, Saha said the movement is intended to protect citizens' voting rights and uphold democratic principles. He appealed to political parties beyond the INDIA Bloc, as well as individuals committed to democratic values, to join the campaign.

The opposition leaders maintained that safeguarding electoral transparency and protecting the rights of voters should remain a matter of national importance. The October 30 protest, they said, will serve as a platform to reiterate these concerns and press for action on their demands.

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