SHILLONG: BJP National Secretary and party in-charge for Meghalaya, Anil K. Anthony, on Monday said that Bihar was the first state to implement the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, adding that it is not a new initiative but a constitutional process carried out periodically across the country.
He explained that the SIR aims to ensure that all eligible citizens aged 18 and above are able to vote, eliminate duplicate entries in electoral rolls, and ensure that only legitimate voters are included. He noted that duplicate entries may arise due to migration between states.
Anthony emphasized that the Constitution allows only Indian citizens to vote, but instances of non-citizens being included in voter lists have been reported in some parts of the country. He added that the SIR exercise is being carried out nationwide and will also be undertaken in Meghalaya.
He also said that the central government has made its position clear on border issues, with the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister stressing the importance of peace and security in border areas.
He noted that while some states require heightened vigilance, the NDA government has taken steps to address these challenges. Border fencing has been implemented in several states, including Meghalaya, and security forces are maintaining strict surveillance to prevent illegal infiltration and other incidents.
Anthony added that the government is continuing to explore further measures to strengthen border security.
