19 June, Posted at 4:16 PM IST
Hyderabad: Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) President Mahesh Kumar Goud criticized the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process and raised concerns over voter list management while addressing a round-table meeting organized under the leadership of the Communist Party of India (CPI) in Hyderabad.
Speaking at the event, Goud alleged that democratic and constitutional institutions in the country were being weakened and increasingly brought under political influence. He argued that electoral processes must remain transparent and independent to safeguard democracy.
During his speech, Goud also extended birthday greetings to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and described him as a prominent opposition leader who continues to challenge the policies of the Narendra Modi-led government. He stated that Rahul Gandhi has maintained a consistent stand on issues affecting democratic institutions.
The TPCC chief expressed concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision process, claiming that voter list revisions could adversely affect marginalized communities if not conducted transparently. Referring to previous elections in other states, he alleged that large numbers of voter names had been removed from electoral rolls, though these claims were presented as political allegations and were not independently verified during the event.
Goud argued that economically weaker sections, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, minorities and other vulnerable groups could face difficulties if voter registration and verification procedures become cumbersome. He stressed the importance of ensuring that every eligible citizen retains the right to vote.
The Congress leader also highlighted organizational measures being undertaken by the party. According to him, Congress has appointed and trained Booth Level Agents (BLAs) across constituencies to monitor voter lists and assist citizens facing issues related to electoral registration.
He stated that extensive training programs have been conducted in multiple districts over the past several weeks to prepare party workers for voter awareness and verification campaigns. The objective, he said, is to ensure that eligible voters are not excluded from the electoral process.
Goud further emphasized the role of grassroots political workers in helping citizens resolve electoral roll-related issues and safeguarding voter participation. He called for greater vigilance during voter verification exercises and urged party workers to remain active at the booth level.
The round-table meeting was attended by leaders and representatives from various political and civil society organizations. Discussions focused on electoral reforms, voter rights, and concerns regarding the ongoing voter list revision process.
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