Owaisi: SIR is a ‘backdoor NRC’ and a citizenship test
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi alleges the Special Intensive Revision is a disguised citizenship test by the BJP.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has launched a scathing attack on the government, alleging that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is nothing more than a backdoor NRC. Addressing a press conference in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, the AIMIM leader claimed that the ruling BJP intends to use this exercise to transform voter-list revision into a rigorous test for citizenship.
A Premeditated Move Against Citizens
Owaisi expressed deep concern over the implications of the SIR, suggesting that the process is designed to create widespread complications. He asserted that his party had been sounding the alarm from the very beginning, arguing that the exercise is a strategic precursor to a National Register of Citizens (NRC).
"We knew there would be problems. We have been saying from the beginning, look, this is not SIR; it is a backdoor NRC, and they will conduct the NRC on the basis of this," Owaisi stated during the briefing.
Consistent Opposition by AIMIM
The AIMIM chief highlighted that his party has a history of challenging such administrative moves. He noted that AIMIM has consistently opposed the SIR and the selection of the Election Commissioner, claiming they were ahead of the curve in identifying these patterns.
Key points from Owaisi's address:
- AIMIM has opposed the SIR since its inception.
- The party claims the exercise is a disguised method to implement an NRC.
- Owaisi cited past political stances in Maharashtra, Telangana, Uttarakhand, and Delhi to support his party's vigilance.
Warning Against Negligence
Owaisi issued a stern warning to citizens across India, urging them not to treat the SIR process with indifference. He emphasized that the stakes are far higher than mere administrative updates to a voter list.
"This is not just about losing your right to vote; you could also be deprived of your citizenship. Therefore, take this with great depth and seriousness," Owaisi warned, highlighting the potential for long-term legal and civil consequences for the populace.