Opposition MPs called to LS speaker's office after SIR uproar
What's the story
The Lok Sabha was adjourned till noon on Tuesday after opposition MPs created a ruckus over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The uproar started as soon as the session began, with several MPs standing up to demand an immediate debate on what they claim are "serious irregularities" in the SIR process. Speaker Om Birla was forced to suspend proceedings without taking up Question Hour. The MPs were reportedly called to the speaker's office after the uproar.
Unheeded appeals
Speaker's appeals go unheard amid opposition protests
Despite repeated warnings from Speaker Birla to maintain decorum, the opposition continued their protest, raising slogans like "vote chor, gaddi chod." The Speaker's attempts to restore order were unsuccessful as he warned of "persistent indiscipline." The protests stemmed from allegations that the SIR process has been rushed and lacked adequate oversight by the Election Commission and local authorities.
Disenfranchisement fears
Opposition's concerns over potential disenfranchisement
The Opposition has raised concerns that the SIR process could lead to mass deletions, mistakes, and disenfranchisement of vulnerable groups. They argue that this issue has "national consequences" and should not be treated as a minor agenda item. Instead, they have demanded an immediate debate under a voting rule, something the Treasury benches have called "unnecessary politicization."
Debate demand
Opposition's demand for debate on electoral rolls
The opposition has insisted that their concerns are "legitimate, urgent, and in the public interest." On the second day of the Winter Session, the central government is likely to introduce the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will likely move this bill in Lok Sabha. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Central Excise Act and proposes an increase in excise duty and cess on tobacco products.