BJP MP Raghav Chadha Accuses AAP of Political Vendetta Over Voter List Removal in Punjab

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Raghav Chadha has made serious allegations against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, claiming that his name has been unlawfully removed from the draft voter list during the recent intensive revision of electoral rolls. Chadha, who represents Punjab in the Rajya Sabha, expressed his concerns on social media, suggesting that this action is a direct result of political vendetta.

According to Chadha, the Election Commission categorized him as having shifted from his registered address in Mohali, a claim he vehemently disputes. He asserts that the decision to mark him as “shifted” was made by an official from the AAP-led Punjab government, raising questions about the integrity of the voter roll revision process. “Who verified that classification?” Chadha questioned in his post, insinuating that the AAP government has undue influence over administrative decisions.

In response to Chadha’s accusations, the AAP has clarified that the revision of voter rolls is an exercise conducted solely by the Election Commission of India, emphasizing that the state government plays no role in determining the inclusion or exclusion of names on the voter list. This statement aims to distance the party from the controversy, reinforcing their claim that the electoral process remains impartial and unaffected by political disputes.

Chadha further highlighted the guidelines issued by the Election Commission, which stipulate that public representatives, including sitting MPs, should be included in the draft electoral rolls to facilitate the collection of necessary documentation during the period allowed for claims and objections. He maintains that his removal contradicts these guidelines, and thus should be rectified immediately. His assertion calls into question whether political affiliations are influencing bureaucratic decisions within Punjab.

The ongoing political tug-of-war in Punjab is emblematic of the larger confrontations that often arise in Indian politics, particularly as electoral processes come under scrutiny. As political parties gear up for upcoming elections, allegations such as those made by Chadha could intensify, potentially impacting voter sentiment and trust in the electoral process. The case underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the electoral system, particularly in light of rising tensions between the ruling AAP and opposition parties in the state.

Source: scroll.in