"Numerous problems with SIR": BJD demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar's exit
BJD MP Sasmit Patra reiterates demand for CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, citing issues with Odisha's electoral roll revision and EC transparency.
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has intensified its attack on the Election Commission, once again demanding the immediate resignation and removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Speaking on Wednesday, BJD MP Sasmit Patra highlighted growing concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process, specifically pointing toward the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Odisha.
Allegations of Failed Electoral Roll Revision in Odisha
Patra expressed strong dissatisfaction with the current state of electoral management in Odisha. He characterized the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process as a complete failure, alleging that the system has been plagued by significant issues.
"In Odisha, numerous problems have arisen regarding the SIR. This is a completely failed process," Patra stated. He further claimed that the party's attempts to address these issues were met with indifference, saying, "Whenever we raised concerns about this and filed complaints about irregularities, no action was taken."
BJD Stands Firm on CEC Resignation
The demand for the CEC's departure is a core stance for the party, as articulated by their leader, Naveen Patnaik. Patra noted that the visible friction and differences between Election Commissioners have undermined public confidence.
According to the BJD MP, the party's position is unwavering: the current leadership within the Election Commission must step down to maintain the sanctity of the democratic process. This demand aligns with a broader wave of criticism currently being directed at the commission by various opposition factions.
INDIA Bloc Rallies for "Save Democracy March"
The BJD's stance comes amidst a high-level coordination meeting of the INDIA bloc in New Delhi. The three-and-a-half-hour session saw leaders from across the spectrum, including Uddhav Thackeray and Hemant Soren, discussing strategies to combat what they perceive as threats to democratic institutions.
Following the meeting, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announced a series of aggressive protest actions:
- Save Democracy March: A district-level protest scheduled from October 2 to October 8.
- March to the EC: Opposition MPs plan to march to the Election Commission on October 6.
- Presidential Meeting: Opposition leaders intend to meet President Droupadi Murmu in the second week of October to raise institutional concerns.
Kharge emphasized that the fundamental principle of "one person, one vote, one value" is under serious threat, noting that political parties and citizens nationwide are raising alarms regarding the Election Commission's functioning.
Mamata Banerjee Joins the Call for Resignation
Adding further momentum to the protest, former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee joined the chorus of criticism. Addressing the INDIA bloc, she declared that the opposition would continue its demonstrations until Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar resigns. In a sharp escalation, she also demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.