Supreme Court's role in upholding democratic faith amid EC's electoral roll issues
The article critiques the Election Commission of India (ECI) for its "Special Intensive Revision" (SIR) process, particularly in West Bengal, which led to the exclusion of millions of voters through "logical discrepancy." It questions the Supreme Court's (SC) apparent apathy towards these mass deletions, emphasizing that the right to vote is fundamental. The author argues that the ECI's actions, by creating hurdles and potentially lowering poll percentages, risk making people apathetic towards the democratic process. The ECI's focus on "purging" the electoral roll, especially targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims, is seen as problematic and potentially discriminatory. The SC, as the guardian of rights, has a crucial role in preventing such "sins of commission" and restoring faith in democratic institutions.
Key Points
- The ECI's "Special Intensive Revision" (SIR) process, particularly in West Bengal, is criticized for mass voter deletions based on "logical discrepancy."
- The article questions the Supreme Court's perceived inaction despite the significant number of voters affected.
- The author argues that the ECI's actions undermine the fundamental right to vote and risk fostering public apathy towards democracy.
- The ECI's focus on "purging" the electoral roll, especially targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims, is seen as problematic and potentially discriminatory.
- The Supreme Court is urged to intervene decisively to protect constitutional rights and prevent a loss of public faith in democratic processes.
Exam Facts
- ECI's process: Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
- Number of voters identified for "special treatment" in West Bengal: six million.
- Number of "deleted" electors remaining in "suspended animation": 2.7 million.
- The article references the Bihar SIR hearing where SC asserted it would not allow mass deletions.
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