Elections – Owaisi Questions Electoral Roll Revision Process in Bengal
Elections – AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday raised sharp objections to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, arguing that the exercise goes beyond the authority of the Election Commission of India. He maintained that matters related to citizenship fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, not the poll body.
Concerns Over Jurisdiction and Legal Challenge
Addressing reporters during his visit to the state, Owaisi said his party has already approached the Supreme Court over the issue, and the petition is currently under consideration. He reiterated that determining citizenship is not within the Election Commission’s mandate, stressing that such responsibilities lie with central authorities. According to him, any attempt to verify citizenship through electoral processes raises serious constitutional questions.
Delay in Electoral Roll Finalisation
Owaisi also pointed to delays in finalising the electoral rolls, particularly highlighting the pending adjudication list. He said that several names remain unresolved, creating uncertainty for voters at a crucial time. With the election process already underway, he warned that such administrative delays could disrupt the smooth conduct of polling.
He urged authorities to expedite the process, stating that timely completion of voter lists is essential to ensure fairness and transparency. The delay, he added, could lead to confusion among voters and impact participation in the elections.
Campaign Launch in West Bengal
The AIMIM chief arrived in Kolkata earlier in the day to kick off his party’s campaign for the upcoming Assembly elections. He is scheduled to address a public gathering in Murshidabad, marking the party’s first major outreach effort in the state. The rally is expected to draw attention to key issues the party plans to focus on during the campaign.
Alliance with Regional Party
For this election, AIMIM has formed an alliance with the Jan Unnayan Party led by Humayun Kabir. Both leaders are set to share the stage at the Murshidabad rally, signalling a coordinated effort to expand their political footprint. The alliance aims to consolidate support in select constituencies and present an alternative voice in the state’s political landscape.
Focus on Select Constituencies
In its debut electoral contest in West Bengal, AIMIM plans to field candidates in eight Assembly seats. These include three constituencies each in Birbhum and Murshidabad, along with two in Malda. The party’s strategy appears to centre on regions with significant Muslim populations, where it believes its message will resonate strongly.
Development Issues Raised
Owaisi also highlighted what he described as longstanding development gaps in districts such as Malda and Murshidabad. He pointed to high unemployment levels, which he said have forced many young people to migrate in search of work.
Additionally, he criticised the state government for inadequate infrastructure in sectors like higher education and healthcare. According to him, these shortcomings have had a direct impact on the quality of life in these areas, and addressing them should be a priority for any government.
Election Schedule
West Bengal is set to hold its Assembly elections in two phases, scheduled for April 23 and April 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 4. As campaigning gathers pace, issues related to voter lists and administrative preparedness are likely to remain central to political discussions in the state.