AAP Alleges BJP’s Electoral Roll Manipulation in Delhi

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has raised serious concerns about alleged electoral roll manipulation by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Shahdara Assembly constituency. This comes ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Delhi scheduled for February 2025. AAP claims that the BJP is attempting to delete 11,018 electors from the rolls, targeting areas where AAP has support. The party has sought intervention from the Election Commission (EC) to ensure fair electoral practices.

AAP’s Allegations

AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal has accused the BJP of submitting applications to delete electors under false pretences. He stated that many of the claimed electors were still residing at their listed addresses. AAP’s verification indicated that portion of the applications were unjustified. Kejriwal has called for the rejection of these applications and requested legal action against those responsible.

Electoral Roll Deletion Process

The deletion of electors from the rolls follows specific procedures outlined in the Representation of the People Act, 1950. Following amendments in 2021, the EC now revises electoral rolls quarterly. Citizens aged 18 and above can register using Form 6. If changes are needed, they can submit Form 8. Form 7 is used to object to or seek deletion of names from the rolls. This form can only be submitted by registered electors in the constituency.

Verification and Claims

The EC publishes draft electoral rolls and invites claims and objections within a designated timeframe. The rules allow for a limited number of applications from political parties, specifically through Booth Level Agents. However, bulk applications are not permitted. This regulation aims to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

Response from the Election Commission

The Election Commission has not officially commented on AAP’s allegations. However, sources within the EC have stated that the claim of 11,018 electors being deleted is inaccurate. They reported that only 494 Form 7 applications have been filed in Shahdara since the recent electoral roll revision began. The EC has set deadlines for processing claims and objections, with the final electoral roll due for publication on January 6, 2025.

Implications for Future Elections

The controversy surrounding the electoral rolls in Shahdara raises questions about electoral integrity and the potential impact on the upcoming Assembly elections. AAP’s allegations highlight concerns over the manipulation of voter lists, which could influence election outcomes. The situation puts stress on the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the role of the Election Commission of India in ensuring free and fair elections in the country.
2. Discuss the significance of electoral roll revisions in maintaining the integrity of the democratic process.
3. Explain the impact of political party strategies on voter turnout and electoral outcomes in India.
4. What are the provisions for voter registration and deletion in the Representation of the People Act, 1950? Discuss with examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of the Election Commission of India in ensuring free and fair elections in the country.

1. Acts as an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes.
2. Ensures compliance with electoral laws and conducts free and fair elections through monitoring and regulation.
3. Manages the electoral rolls, oversees the conduct of elections, and resolves disputes related to electoral processes.
4. Implements measures to prevent electoral malpractices, such as vote buying and intimidation.
5. Facilitates voter education and awareness to enhance democratic participation among citizens.

2. Discuss the significance of electoral roll revisions in maintaining the integrity of the democratic process.

1. Ensures that only eligible voters are included, reflecting the current demographic and residential status.
2. Promotes transparency by allowing public scrutiny of electoral rolls and facilitating claims and objections.
3. Updates the rolls regularly to prevent outdated or erroneous entries that could affect election outcomes.
4. Enhances voter confidence in the electoral system by ensuring accuracy in voter representation.
5. Facilitates smoother electoral processes by ensuring that the rolls are accurate and up-to-date for each election.

3. Explain the impact of political party strategies on voter turnout and electoral outcomes in India.

1. Political parties employ strategies such as targeted campaigning to engage specific voter demographics.
2. Mobilization efforts, including rallies and door-to-door campaigns, can boost voter turnout.
3. Parties may influence voter preferences through promises, manifestos, and issue-based campaigning.
4. Allegations of electoral malpractices can undermine public trust and affect voter participation negatively.
5. Strategic alliances and coalitions can alter the competitive landscape, impacting overall electoral results.

4. What are the provisions for voter registration and deletion in the Representation of the People Act, 1950? Discuss with examples.

1. Citizens aged 18 and above can register using Form 6; this allows new voters to enroll in the electoral rolls.
2. Form 7 is used to object to or delete names from the rolls, ensuring accuracy and legitimacy of entries.
3. Form 8 allows registered voters to make corrections to their details, such as address changes.
4. Electoral rolls are revised quarterly, enhancing the responsiveness to demographic changes.
5. Example – If a voter moves to a new address, they can submit Form 8 to update their information and ensure they are listed correctly in the new constituency.