Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes Election Commission Over Voter List Irregularities

Lucknow, October 19 (Daily Kiran) : Akhilesh Yadav, the national president of the Samajwadi Party (SP), has sharply criticized the Election Commission for alleged irregularities in the voter list during a special intensive review (SIR). Speaking on Monday, he emphasized that having multiple votes registered under one name or the same voter’s name appearing at four different polling stations are not minor errors but indicate significant negligence.

Yadav attributed these discrepancies to the vigilance of SP workers and PDA guards, stating that the Commission is now acknowledging the flaws in the voter list and is attempting to rectify them. While visiting former minister Vidyawati in Gomti Nagar Extension, he pointed out that despite spending millions on the SIR process, irregularities in the voter list have emerged.

He also raised concerns about the deaths of several booth-level officers (BLOs) during this process, questioning how such mistakes could occur despite the extensive efforts involved. Yadav accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of collaborating with the Election Commission when facing potential electoral defeat. He noted that BJP leaders readily respond when the SP questions the Commission, suggesting collusion between the two entities.

Furthermore, he mentioned the need for action against officials and referenced incidents related to protests against the Election Commission in Delhi. Highlighting a specific case of irregularities, he noted that a PDA guard had reported multiple registrations for a woman named Phoolmati. He expressed hope that the booth-level officer would act to remove the extra entries and urged the Commission to remain vigilant, warning that such discrepancies could affect voting rights.

Yadav also questioned the role of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in preparing the voter list. He stated that if there are doubts about the company’s operations, its credibility must be clarified, as attempting to influence the electoral process through a private company poses a serious threat to democracy.

Looking ahead to the upcoming assembly elections, Yadav announced that a meeting will be held on November 26 to strategize and discuss the party’s direction in various sectors. He assured that detailed discussions would lead to a concrete action plan.