The Bihar votebandi controversy has brought India’s Parliament to a standstill, with the Opposition, led by Congress, demanding an urgent debate on the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. On August 6, 2025, the INDIA bloc, including leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, protested at Parliament’s Makar Dwar, accusing the government of orchestrating “vote chori” to suppress voters ahead of Bihar’s Assembly elections.
Opposition on Bihar Votebandi
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh called the demand for discussion “non-negotiable,” citing a 2023 Rajya Sabha ruling allowing such debates. He accused the government of ignoring this precedent, with X posts echoing fears that millions of legitimate voters could be disenfranchised. The Opposition alleges the SIR, which claims 99% verification, has left 36 lakh voters unaccounted for, raising suspicions of deliberate manipulation.
Government’s Stance on The Controversy
The government, backed by BJP’s J.P. Nadda, dismissed the protests as attempts to “malign democracy,” insisting rules prevent such discussions. Yet, the Opposition’s resolve remains firm, with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra daring the government to face the issue openly. The logjam has disrupted both Houses, reflecting deep distrust in the electoral process.
As Bihar’s voters await clarity, the Bihar votebandi row underscores a broader fight for democratic transparency.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 6th, 2025
Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram, and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.
