Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Monday urged the Lok Sabha to hold a discussion on alleged flaws in voter lists, an issue that has been highlighted by several political parties. Speaking during Zero Hour, he emphasized that the opposition has consistently raised concerns regarding discrepancies in voter lists across the country.

“We accept your remarks that the government does not make voter lists. But we demand a discussion on the issue,” the Congress leader stated.

The concerns over the voter lists were echoed by opposition parties, with Gandhi pointing out that questions have been raised in multiple states, including Maharashtra.

Concerns over duplicate voter entries

Earlier, Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy raised the issue of errors in voter lists, citing specific instances from West Bengal. He stated that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had pointed out cases where voters with identical EPIC (Electoral Photo Identity Card) numbers were found in Murshidabad and Burdwan parliamentary constituencies, as well as in Haryana.

To address these concerns, a Trinamool Congress delegation is set to meet the newly-appointed Chief Election Commissioner, urging corrective measures.

Demand for thorough revision before elections

Mr. Roy also highlighted the urgency of revising voter lists, especially before the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal and Assam next year.

“There are some serious flaws. This has been pointed out with respect to Maharashtra, which had inflated voter lists. This was pointed out in Haryana. They are now trying to jump into West Bengal and Assam where elections are due next year,” he said.

Calling for immediate action, he demanded that the Election Commission review and rectify errors in the voter lists, ensuring transparency in the electoral process.

Opposition seeks Election Commission’s response

The opposition leaders have urged the Election Commission to provide an explanation regarding the inconsistencies. They stressed the need for accountability in the electoral system to maintain public trust.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at multiple locations linked to former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel, including his residence in Bhilai city, Durg district. The searches were conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in connection with an alleged multi-crore liquor scam.

According to officials, at least 14 premises connected to Mr. Baghel and his son, Chaitanya Baghel, were searched. The probe agency examined several crucial documents believed to be linked to the alleged scam. In addition to Mr. Baghel’s residence, locations associated with his close aides were also targeted during the operation.

Bhupesh Baghel reacts to ED action

Reacting strongly to the ED raids, Mr. Baghel alleged political vendetta, stating that the action followed the dismissal of a “false case” that had been running for seven years.

“After a false case going on for seven years was dismissed by the court, the guests of ED entered the Bhilai residence of former Chief Minister, Congress General Secretary Bhupesh Baghel this morning. If someone is trying to stop Congress in Punjab through this conspiracy, then it is a misunderstanding,” said Mr. Baghel.

Allegations of a massive liquor scam

The ED’s investigation focuses on an alleged liquor scam that reportedly caused a significant loss to the Chhattisgarh state exchequer. Officials claim that those involved in the liquor syndicate siphoned off approximately Rs 2,161 crore through various illicit means.

The central agency alleges that between 2019 and 2022, a syndicate collected large sums in illegal commissions. One of the key mechanisms was obtaining bribes from distillers per liquor ‘case’ procured by the state liquor body. Additionally, the sale of country liquor from state-run shops allegedly remained unaccounted, with the entire amount being misappropriated by the syndicate.

Chaitanya Baghel under scanner

According to officials, Chaitanya Baghel received proceeds from the alleged scam. The ED claims that distillers involved in the liquor cartel had to pay bribes to secure a fixed market share. Similar commissions were also allegedly collected from the foreign liquor segment.

The women’s wing of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) has written to President Droupadi Murmu, urging her to grant immunity from punishment to women who commit one murder, citing the rising atrocities against women and the failure of law enforcement to protect them.

In a letter written on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Rohini Khadse, president of the NCP (SP) women’s wing, emphasized the need to address the oppressive mentality, rapist mindset, and ineffective law and order situation that women face.

Rising Crimes Against Women
Khadse highlighted the alarming rise in crimes against women, pointing to the recent gangrape of a 12-year-old girl in Mumbai as a stark example. She stated that women are demanding the right to protect themselves in the face of systemic failures.

“We, on behalf of all women, are demanding immunity (from punishment) to commit one murder,” Khadse wrote in the letter, which also targeted the state government over its handling of law and order.

Survey Highlights Unsafe Environment
The letter cited a survey report that labeled India as the most unsafe country for women, with crimes such as kidnapping, domestic violence, and sexual assault on the rise. Khadse argued that the current legal framework is insufficient to safeguard women’s rights and safety.

“We hope our demand will be granted after giving it serious thought,” Khadse added, urging the President to consider the plea as a measure to empower women and address the systemic issues they face.

A Call for Empowerment and Justice
The demand for immunity reflects the growing frustration among women over the lack of effective measures to combat gender-based violence. Khadse’s letter underscores the need for stronger legal protections and a more proactive approach to ensuring women’s safety.

The NCP (SP) women’s wing’s appeal has sparked a debate on the balance between justice and self-defense, with many calling for a comprehensive review of laws and policies to better protect women.

As the letter reaches the President’s office, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to this bold demand for women’s empowerment and justice.