Opposition Critiques SIR Process Amidst Upcoming Elections in Tamil Nadu

As the Tamil Nadu elections approach, the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process has come under fire from opposition parties. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal expresses confidence in the BJP's chances, citing an anti-incumbency wave against the DMK and strong alliances. He clarifies that the SIR process aims to clean voter lists and criticizes the DMK's governance. Additionally, he addresses the issue of illegal immigration in Bengal, promising development if the BJP comes to power. The BJP is gearing up for the elections with a statewide campaign to engage voters.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 31, 2025, 19:28 IST

Ongoing Controversy Surrounding the SIR Process

The Special Intensive Review (SIR) process has faced criticism from opposition parties throughout the year, and the debate continues. Questions are being raised against the government and the Election Commission of India (ECI), with ruling parties in various states accusing the central government of misusing the election body. In an exclusive interview, Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), expressed confidence in the BJP's victory in the upcoming elections, attributing it to an anti-incumbency wave against the DMK in Tamil Nadu and strong alliances like the AIADMK. He dismissed Mamata Banerjee's criticisms as politically motivated.

Clarifying the Purpose of the SIR Process

According to Meghwal, the SIR process is a standard procedure aimed at cleaning up voter lists. He argued that the opposition blames the Election Commission for their electoral failures. Meghwal stated that this is not the first instance of voter list amendments; names that are ineligible should be removed, while eligible names should be added. This is the fundamental goal of the voter list revision. During the monsoon session, a significant issue arose concerning Bihar, where the public responded strongly to Rahul Gandhi during the elections. Subsequently, he faced a similar response in Parliament during the winter session. This time, he believes the NDA will emerge victorious in Tamil Nadu.

Criticism of DMK's Governance

He further noted that when MK Stalin contested the last assembly elections, he promised rapid development and good governance. However, under the DMK's rule, they have failed in both aspects. There is a significant anti-incumbency sentiment against them, and the atmosphere is gradually shifting towards the belief that NDA governance was superior. Tamil Nadu is moving in this direction. Meghwal also targeted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for criticizing Home Minister Amit Shah.

Addressing Illegal Immigration in Bengal

He stated that regardless of what Mamata Banerjee claims, illegal immigration remains a major issue. He assured that once they come to power, they will accelerate development in Bengal and free its people from these illegal immigrants. Meanwhile, the BJP is fully prepared for the Tamil Nadu elections and has launched a statewide campaign titled 'Tamizhgam Thalai Nimir Thamilanin Payanam' (A Tamilian's Journey that Honors Tamil Nadu).