The opposition alleges targeting of poor women and minorities, demands an urgent probe and restoration of names
LUCKNOW — Serious concern has emerged in Uttar Pradesh after more than 2.04 crore names were reportedly removed from the final voter list issued following the SIR (Special Intensive Revision) process.
Reports from several districts suggest that even eligible voters, who had submitted all required documents, have found their names missing from the list. This has led to growing anger among the public and raised questions about the fairness of the process.
In many areas, a large number of deletions have been reported at once, leading people to question how such a high number of names could be removed without any clear explanation.
Opposition parties, especially the Samajwadi Party, have strongly criticised the development. They allege that the deletions have affected weaker sections more, including women, the poor, rural voters and minorities.
Party spokesperson Abbas Haider told Inquilab, “The large-scale removal of names from the final voter list is extremely worrying. This is a direct attack on democracy and the basic right to vote.”
He added, “Names cannot be removed without a clear reason and full transparency. This is not acceptable.”
According to reports, many voters were not informed that their names were under review or that they needed to update their documents. This lack of awareness has added to the problem.
There are also concerns that while removing duplicate entries, valid names may have been deleted by mistake in some areas.
Abbas Haider has demanded that the Election Commission of India immediately investigate the issue. He said, “The names of affected voters must be restored without delay, and strict action should be taken against officials responsible for this negligence.”
For many citizens, especially from weaker and minority backgrounds, the issue is not just administrative but directly linked to their right to participate in elections.
As pressure grows, there are increasing calls for transparency, accountability and quick correction to ensure that no eligible voter is denied their democratic right.
