Mumbai, May 29: Anand Dubey, spokesperson for Shiv Sena (UBT), made significant remarks regarding the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process. He stated that the opposition does not oppose the SIR procedure but insists it should not be misused for political vendettas. Dubey emphasized the need for the Election Commission to operate with complete transparency to prevent any injustice to genuine voters.
He clarified that the opposition has never been against the SIR. It is essential to review and amend the voter list as new voters join with each election, and changes occur frequently. However, he accused certain areas of misusing this process. Citing Bihar as an example, he noted that many names were removed from the voter list, prompting judicial intervention, after which the names were reinstated.
Dubey pointed out that courts have clearly stated that no citizen’s rights can be overlooked in the name of elections. While the Election Commission has the authority to determine who is a voter, this process must be fair and transparent. Denying any Indian citizen the right to vote is a serious concern for democracy.
He mentioned that the SIR process is also ongoing in states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The opposition’s primary demand is that no specific group or political ideology should be targeted through this process. Dubey warned that if the Election Commission operates under political pressure, it may face repercussions from the judiciary.
He also asserted that action should be taken against any non-citizen illegally casting votes. While he acknowledged the necessity of preventing illegal immigration and fraudulent voting, he stressed that genuine Indian citizens should not be harassed in the process. The opposition’s main demand is for fair elections, ensuring every legitimate voter receives their rights.
During the conversation, he criticized the central government and the BJP, claiming that in states where non-BJP governments exist, actions by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are more frequent. He referenced investigations against several opposition leaders, suggesting that central agencies are being used to suppress political adversaries.
Dubey stated that whether it is West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Jharkhand’s leader Hemant Soren, or other opposition figures, they will fight their battles legally. He assured that the opposition is not intimidated and will respond to any wrongful actions through the courts and legal means.
He also condemned violence, asserting that responses to agency raids should be legal, not violent or disruptive. He insisted that the law should be equal for everyone, without varying attitudes based on political affiliations.
Additionally, Dubey commented on the BJP’s governance in West Bengal and the discussion around the ‘double engine’ government. He argued that if both the central and state governments are BJP-led and continuously raise the issue of illegal immigration, they must now take action. He urged the government to expedite the identification of illegal immigrants and ensure they are deported according to the law.
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