Why India’s opposition wants top poll official out

NEW DELHI — Critics are targeting India's Election Commission after a newspaper investigation alleged impropriety during a large-scale voter roll revision, according to an Indian Express report. The controversy stems from the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, which saw millions of names removed from the rolls, allegedly at the discretion of two of the three Election Commissioners.

The Election Commission of India (ECI), a constitutional body, has rejected the allegations, stating that all decisions were unanimous and legally valid. Opposition parties have long raised doubts about the nationwide revision, claiming it benefits Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party. The ECI maintains the SIR exercise aims to identify fraudulent registrations while ensuring eligible voters remain on the rolls, though critics allege it disproportionately affects marginalized communities.

If decisions taken without proper authorization are found to be invalid, it could have significant implications for the SIR process and the integrity of India's democratic electoral system.