'Why is BJP acting like spokesperson of ECI or CEO?': Priyank Kharge
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge questions why BJP is acting as a spokesperson for the ECI amidst a row over electoral roll deletions.
In a sharp political confrontation, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), questioning why the party is attempting to act as a "spokesperson" for the Election Commission of India (ECI) or the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).
The heated exchange comes in the midst of a growing political row in Karnataka regarding the alleged misuse of Form-7 applications during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The controversy centers on claims that certain groups are using these forms to target eligible voters for deletion from the rolls.
Congress Questions BJP's Interference
Speaking to reporters following a Congress delegation's visit to the Chief Electoral Officer's office, Kharge expressed confusion over the BJP's intense interest in the delegation's activities. He questioned the legitimacy of the BJP's objections to the Congress party meeting with election officials.
"How does it concern them if we have gone to the Chief Electoral Officer's office? How does it concern them if we have a problem with the Election Commission of India?" Kharge asked. "If they have a problem, they will complain. Why is BJP acting like a spokesperson of the ECI or the CEO? And what rules have we flouted?"
The Minister detailed the meeting with the CEO, noting that the official had indicated a need to consult with the Election Commission of India and seek directions from the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) before proceeding.
Allegations of Bulk Deletions and Pre-printed Forms
The core of the dispute involves the use of Form-7, a mechanism intended for raising objections against names in the electoral roll—such as duplicates or ineligible voters. However, Kharge leveled serious allegations against BJP workers, claiming they are operating outside their official capacity.
Kharge alleged that BJP workers, who are not designated Booth Level Agents (BLAs), have been submitting bulk applications to delete voters. He further raised concerns regarding the nature of these applications, suggesting they appear to be pre-planned.
"They should answer where they are getting pre-printed forms from," Kharge stated. "They should answer why their karyakartas who are not BLAs are going and asking for bulk deletion of voters. Everything is pre-printed. Why they have to be deleted also is pre-printed. Isn't that a violation?"
Political Tug-of-War: BJP Demands Withdrawal of Cases
The tension has escalated into a legal battle. While Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has alleged attempts to use Form-7 to purge eligible voters, the BJP has dismissed these claims, maintaining that submitting such applications is a legitimate part of the electoral process.
Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra has taken a firm stance, demanding that police cases registered against BJP workers be withdrawn. He argued that these legal actions are the result of political pressure exerted by the Congress government.
Leading a BJP delegation to meet with Karnataka Director General and Inspector General of Police MA Saleem, Vijayendra emphasized that Form-7 is a prescribed mechanism for raising objections. He insisted that all complaints related to these applications must be dealt with strictly according to the law, without political interference.
"We will not sit quietly. We are ready to go to any extent to protect our workers," Vijayendra declared, insisting that the cases filed against his party members are unjust.
As the investigation continues, the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer has already directed election officials to initiate legal action against anyone found to be knowingly submitting false claims or objections in electoral-roll applications.