Video: SIR Process Not New, Has Been Done 8 Times Before, Says Bhupender Yadav Countering Opposition

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has launched a sharp counterattack against the opposition, especially Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Speaking at a public media conclave, Yadav asserted that the SIR process is not happening for the first time in the country and has previously been conducted eight times under constitutional provisions.

'SIR is Not New, Done 8 Times Before'

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav clarified that the SIR is being carried out in accordance with the Constitution and derives its legal basis from Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. Citing historical precedents, he noted that special revisions of voter lists took place in phases during 1952, 1957, 1961, 1965-66, 1973-74, 1977-79, 1992-95, and 2002-05. Keeping electoral rolls updated to account for migration and demographic shifts is a regular statutory responsibility of the Election Commission.

Challenging Rahul Gandhi on Proof and Evidence

Addressing Rahul Gandhi's allegations regarding irregularities in voter lists and the SIR process, Yadav stated that making accusations without solid evidence holds no weight. He challenged the opposition to present proof from at least 1,000 booth agents out of the 15 million booths across the country if mass deletions were genuinely occurring. Explaining the difference between Form-6 and Form-7, he emphasized that established legal procedures should be respected rather than creating political uproar.

'The Country Runs on Constitution, Not Mob Rule'

Yadav also expressed concern over the dignity of police personnel and public institutions during political protests. He remarked that while every political party has the right to question the government and protest peacefully, the sanctity of constitutional bodies and the rule of law must be upheld at all times.