Tribal residents of Muchikata and Veduashol villages in West Bengal’s Bankura district have refused to participate in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, citing allegiance to the 'Samajwad Inter-State Majhi Sarkar'. Attempts by block administration and police officials to convince the tribal groups were unsuccessful.
According to officials, 79 tribal residents have not filled in the voter roll, allegedly influenced by outsiders claiming to represent the Majhi Sarkar. The villagers claimed they have taken identity cards from the group and refused to accept Indian government citizenship.
Ranibandh BDO Anisha Yash and Khatra SDPO Abhishek Yadav explained the importance of voter registration, but the residents remained firm. One resident was reportedly quoted as saying, "We do not walk on two legs. When we have registered our names with the Majhi Sarkar, we will not remain as citizens of the Indian government."
The administration confirmed its plan to revisit the villages and continue awareness campaigns on voter registration. Officials stated: "We will go to the villages again and try to convince the people. We will continue to campaign continuously on why it is important to have your name on the voter list."
The SIR is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India to ensure that all eligible citizens are included in the electoral roll and no ineligible voter is listed. The exercise is currently underway in several states and Union Territories, including West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
It is noted that Assembly elections are scheduled next year in four of the states involved in the SIR (Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam) and one Union Territory (Puducherry).
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