Bihar Chief Minister Hits Back at Opposition Over Special Intensive Review Allegations

Patna, September 27 (Daily Kiran) : Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary responded sharply to opposition allegations regarding the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process on Sunday. He emphasized that those questioning the electoral process should provide supporting facts and documents along with their accusations.

Chaudhary noted that the SIR is not a new initiative in Bihar, recalling that a similar review of the voter list was conducted in 2003. The most recent SIR was completed in 2025, utilizing the 2003 voter list as a foundation.

During the SIR, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) visited homes to engage with voters. Following this outreach, the Election Commission released a draft voter list, allowing time for claims and objections. After this initial phase, the final list was published.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the SIR identified a significant number of deceased voters, those who had permanently relocated, and individuals registered at multiple addresses. He referred to data from July 2025, which documented the identification process for these voters.

Addressing concerns raised by opposition figures, particularly Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav, Chaudhary stated that any claims regarding the removal of names from the list could have been substantiated with solid evidence submitted to the Election Commission. He assured that any discrepancies found during the process were rectified.

Chaudhary reiterated that citizens facing issues with the voter list have the right to present their cases to the relevant authorities. He argued that resolving such matters through established procedures is more effective than political rhetoric. The Chief Minister highlighted that the Election Commission has provisions for adding and correcting names on the voter list, with services available on its voter service portal for new registrations, amendments, grievances, and appeals.

In response to calls for election cancellations, he stated that those alleging irregularities in the electoral process have recourse through the Election Commission and the judiciary. While questioning the electoral process is permissible in a democracy, it should be supported by facts, he added. Chaudhary criticized the Congress party, urging the opposition to present their arguments based on evidence rather than casting aspersions on democracy and the Election Commission.

He concluded by affirming that the ultimate decision in elections lies with the public, and political parties must respect the voters’ choices. Regarding the opposition’s announcement of protests against the SIR, Chaudhary acknowledged their right to dissent but insisted that the issues raised during such movements should be backed by evidence and facts. He confirmed that the SIR process in Bihar has concluded, and all questions raised have been addressed appropriately.