Akhilesh Yadav Accuses BJP of Manipulating Election Commission in Uttar Pradesh Bypolls

Allegations Against the BJP

In a recent statement, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of exploiting the Election Commission during the bypolls in Uttar Pradesh. He claimed that the party resorts to using institutions when faced with declining support on pressing issues. During a visit to Rajasthan, Yadav emphasized his concerns, stating, "Election commissions are working at the behest of the BJP."

Concerns Over the Election Process

Yadav pointed out that throughout the bypolls in Uttar Pradesh, it appears that the Election Commission has operated under BJP’s directives. "When the BJP starts to lose on real issues, it hides behind institutions to carry out its attacks,” he remarked, highlighting what he describes as a troubling trend in the electoral process.

Voter List Update and Controversies

On the same day, the final voter list for Uttar Pradesh was released following the Special Intensive Revision, revealing a significant increase in the electorate by over 84 lakh. Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa announced that the updated voter list now comprises 13.39 crore voters, compared to the previous draft roll of 12.55 crore published in January.

Assurances from the Electoral Office

Rinwa assured that the voter list updates were carried out with meticulous hearings and verifications. He stressed that no voter’s name was removed without a proper process. "If a name from the draft roll is missing in the final list, it is either due to a Form-6 application or a decision made by the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) after due hearings," he clarified.

Engagement with Political Parties

Rinwa also noted that political parties were engaged throughout the revision process. A total of 107 complaints were lodged by various parties, particularly from the Samajwadi Party, all of which were addressed adequately.

Recourse for Voters

For those dissatisfied with the final voter list, Rinwa mentioned that appeals can be submitted to the district magistrate within 15 days. Additionally, individuals can escalate their concerns to the Chief Electoral Officer if necessary.

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