Telangana CM Alleges Conspiracy in Voter Roll Revision, Urges Vigilance

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has characterized the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls as a plot to disenfranchise eligible voters, stating that a vote is "more valuable than gold." He implored the public to actively participate in verifying voter registrations to ensure no one is mistakenly removed from the rolls, emphasizing that the outcomes of this exercise will impact future elections.

What Happened

Speaking at the Minorities Excellence Summit on Thursday, Mr. Reddy alleged that efforts are underway to delete approximately 60 lakh to 70 lakh votes statewide, with a particular focus on Hyderabad and Rangareddy districts. He called for a street-by-street and household-by-household verification of voter registrations by citizens. Mr. Reddy also highlighted discrepancies observed during the SIR process, such as spelling errors, and urged for continued public vigilance.

Background

The Chief Minister drew parallels to the SIR exercise in West Bengal, where he noted claims that Telangana might be the next target after "winning Bengal." He stated, "Didi must have let Bengal slide, but here nobody will stay quiet." He also referred to an influx of individuals "from Gujarat" and suggested that protecting the state required this vigilance. He further stressed the importance of communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims, describing the communities as his "two eyes" and asserting the government's commitment to equitable provision of services.

Key Facts

• Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy described the vote as “more valuable than gold.”
• He alleged the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was a “conspiracy” to delete genuine voters.
• Mr. Reddy stated that attempts are being made to delete 60 lakh to 70 lakh votes across the State.
• The Chief Minister specifically mentioned Hyderabad and Rangareddy districts as areas targeted for deletions.
• He urged people to check voter registrations in every street and household.
• Mr. Reddy noted anomalies in the SIR process, including differences in spelling.
• He mentioned claims that Telangana might be the next target after "winning Bengal" in reference to the SIR exercise in West Bengal.
• The Chief Minister spoke at the Minorities Excellence Summit on Thursday.
• Minister for Minorities Welfare Mohammed Azharuddin, Hyderabad in-charge minister Ponnam Prabhakar, and Advisor to the Telangana Government Mohammad Ali Shabbir also spoke at the event.

What Happens Next

Mr. Reddy announced the establishment of a Young India Skills University to improve student skills and encouraged minority communities to pursue education and skill development, linking these to career opportunities abroad in countries like Germany, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. He also felicitated youth from minority communities for securing government jobs and achieving high ranks in competitive exams.