Mallikarjun Kharge Writes To Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Urges Debate On Bihar Voter Roll Revision News24 –

Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, has written to Deputy Chairman Harivansh, urging him to allow a discussion in the Upper House on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, particularly in Bihar.

In the letter dated August 6, Kharge referenced a ruling made by the then Chairman of the Rajya Sabha on July 21, 2023, which stated that the House is “entitled to discuss everything under the planet with one restriction.” The sole restriction, the ruling noted, pertains to discussions on the conduct of judges of the Supreme Court or High Courts in the discharge of their duties, unless a motion for their removal is formally presented.

Kharge emphasised that the concept of matters being sub judice, or under judicial consideration, is “totally misconceived” in this context. Citing parliamentary precedent, he reminded the Deputy Chairman that “the Chair is a continuing entity,” and that previous rulings should guide present decisions. “You yourself have quoted rulings given by the Chair over the past many years in support of some of your decisions,” Kharge added.

According to Kharge, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, with similar exercises planned in West Bengal, Assam, and other states. Opposition Members of Parliament have been demanding a discussion on the issue since the beginning of the current session, citing concerns about its implications for democratic representation.

“The issue is of fundamental importance in our democracy,” Kharge wrote. “It is of paramount concern to crores of voters, especially those belonging to the weaker sections of society.”

He urged Deputy Chairman Harivansh to allow immediate discussion on the matter, reiterating that the Opposition seeks to raise the issue in the interest of transparency and electoral integrity.

The letter signals escalating tensions between the Opposition and the government over electoral processes, as allegations of voter disenfranchisement and administrative opacity continue to stir political debate.

Earlier today, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju clarified that discussion on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision Process in Bihar is not possible in the Lok Sabha as the matter is currently pending in the Supreme Court and discussion on such matters is not permitted under the rules of Parliament.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also said that the rules of procedure of the Lok Sabha do not allow discussion on pending matters. He also mentioned that the work of independent bodies like the Election Commission of India cannot be discussed in Parliament.