13 Crore Voter Names Deleted in India? US Lawmaker Raises Concern

Indian-origin US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal has expressed concern over reports that approximately 13 crore names have been removed from India's draft electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. In a post on X, the Democratic lawmaker compared the reported deletions with what she described as efforts to weaken voting rights in the United States. She emphasised the importance of protecting democracy worldwide, stating that Indian citizens deserve free and fair elections. Jayapal also voiced support for people participating in peaceful protests against what she characterised as anti-democratic efforts.

Her remarks come amid protests in India over the SIR exercise, with critics raising concerns that eligible voters could be left out of electoral rolls. The Election Commission has maintained that the revision is intended to update voter lists. It has also stated that eligible voters whose names are missing can apply for inclusion through the prescribed procedure. Jayapal's comments have brought additional international attention to the debate over voter rights, electoral transparency and the implementation of the revision process in India.