Attempts made to delete opposition votes, particularly targeting Dalit community: Neel Garg

CHANDIGARH (The Uttam Hindu): The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Friday expressed serious concern over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, with Punjab leader Neel Garg stating that the issue has become a matter of public discussion as well as institutional scrutiny. He said the process has drawn attention because of attempts to use it for political purposes.

AAP Punjab Leader Neel Garg said, “The ongoing Special Intensive Revision of voter lists has become a serious matter of public concern. The issue has even reached the Supreme Court, which itself shows the gravity of the situation. Reports are suggesting that SIR may begin in Punjab from April, and we are closely monitoring developments.”

He further said, “In several areas and booths where opposition voters are higher in number, attempts have been made to delete votes in large numbers. Particularly, the Dalit community has been targeted. Using the voter revision process for political motives is unacceptable.”

Clarifying the party’s stand, Neel Garg said, “The AAP has no objection to genuine voter list correction. If a voter has passed away or shifted elsewhere, their name should certainly be updated. No one has any problem with proper revision carried out in a transparent and lawful manner.”

However, he added, “We strongly object to doing politics in the name of revision and deleting opposition votes in large numbers. Such actions are beyond tolerance.”

Issuing a firm warning, Neel Garg said, “The BJP’s intention to carry out such a plan in Punjab will not be allowed to succeed at any cost. Every AAP volunteer will keep a close watch on each vote. We will create awareness at the voter level to ensure that no fraud takes place under the name of SIR.”