Thu Jul 24 16:10:22 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article rewrite based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls in Bihar is facing increasing criticism. Despite the Election Commission (EC) claiming 99% coverage, concerns are rising, particularly from within the ruling Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)), about the potential disenfranchisement of migrant workers and marginalized communities. MLA Sanjeev Kumar argues the timing of the revision makes it difficult for those working outside the state to participate. Another JD(U) leader, MLC Khalid Anwar, while supporting the SIR, warned the EC against removing genuine voters. AIMIM MLA Akhtarul Iman raised concerns about discrimination against Muslims during the process. Protests have erupted, and one JD(U) MP has even received a show-cause notice for publicly criticizing the SIR. The debate centers on the accuracy and fairness of the revision process ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.

**News Article:**

**Bihar Voter Roll Revision Sparks Controversy, Allegations of Disenfranchisement**

**Patna, July 24, 2025** – The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls in Bihar is facing a growing storm of controversy, with accusations of potential disenfranchisement of migrant workers and minority communities. Despite the Election Commission (EC) asserting that 99% of electors have been covered, concerns are mounting, even within the ruling Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)).

Sanjeev Kumar, MLA from Parbatta, voiced concerns that the timing of the SIR disadvantages voters working outside the state. “Many names have been left out,” he said, arguing the revision should coincide with major festivals when migrant workers return home. He noted contract limitations and financial constraints prevent frequent travel for many workers. “It is very unfortunate that such migrant workers’ names would be removed and I think the Election Commission should do something about this,” Mr. Kumar said.

While JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar supported the SIR’s principle, he warned the EC against overreach. “The EC is not above the Parliament, they don’t have the right to remove genuine voters from the list. The EC cannot dare to remove the names.”

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) also weighed in, with MLA Akhtarul Iman alleging discrimination against the Muslim population in the Seemanchal region. He criticized the document requirements as a “Tughlaqi farman (diktat),” arguing that many marginalized communities lack the necessary paperwork.

The controversy has spilled into the streets, with police using water cannons to disperse protesting students. The JD(U) issued a show-cause notice to MP Giridhari Yadav, who had also raised concerns about the SIR, highlighting the sensitivity of the issue within the ruling party. The letter stated that his public comments on such a sensitive matter, especially in an election year, not only cause embarrassment to the party but also inadvertently lend credibility to the baseless and politically motivated allegations made by the Opposition,”

The revisions are happening ahead of the crucial 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, raising questions about the potential impact of the SIR on the outcome. The opposition has already seized on the controversy, alleging deliberate attempts to manipulate the voter rolls.

The Election Commission has yet to respond to the specific allegations of disenfranchisement but maintains that the SIR is being conducted fairly and transparently. The debate highlights the challenges of ensuring accurate and inclusive voter rolls in a state with a large migrant population and significant socio-economic disparities.

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