Opposition Raises Concerns Over Bihar’s Electoral Roll Revision in Parliament

Speedy Summary:

• On July 22, 2025, the Lok Sabha functioned for only two minutes as opposition members disrupted proceedings over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
• opposition MPs carried placards and protested outside Parliament after adjournment.
• Congress MP Manickam Tagore moved a notice on SIR but was unable to initiate discussion as the House adjourned rapidly.
• Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of opposition in Bihar, had previously written letters to 35 leaders alleging large-scale disenfranchisement under SIR and seeking support from both ruling and opposition parties.
• The Opposition submitted 12 notices under Rule 267 to suspend regular business for an urgent debate on SIR; all were rejected by Deputy Chairman Harivansh.
• Scheduled legislative business included discussions on bills related to Goa’s Scheduled Tribes portrayal and maritime trade regulation.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The interruptions in parliamentary proceedings highlight deep-seated concerns among opposition parties regarding the implementation of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar.Allegations of potential disenfranchisement signal state-level tensions that could cascade into broader political debates about electoral integrity ahead of upcoming elections. The rejection of Rule 267 notices by parliamentary leadership underscores procedural rigidity amidst political dissent. Moving forward, such disputes may impact cooperation on other legislative priorities during this session.

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