New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal alleged an “unusual spike” in voter addition and deletion applications in the New Delhi Assembly Constituency, alleging foul play in the electoral roll process.
In a letter to the District Electoral Officer (DEO) dated December 28, Kejriwal highlighted a significant surge in such applications, calling it a “sinister plan” to manipulate the electoral rolls. The former Delhi Chief Minister claimed these changes are occurring despite the conclusion of the Special Summary Revision exercise, raising concerns about the integrity of the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 2025.
“It is concerning that these applications have been submitted after the conclusion of the comprehensive Special Summary Revision exercise. This raises serious concerns about a sinister plan to tinker with the electoral rolls, which are the very foundation of any free and fair election,” Kejriwal wrote in his letter.
Demand for Transparency
Kejriwal demanded transparency and urged the DEO to disclose details of individuals who have filed more than five voter deletion applications since October 29, 2024. He enclosed a list of such individuals and questioned their motives.
“To address this matter, I kindly request you to provide details of individuals (objectors) who have submitted more than five deletion applications since October 29, 2024. Specifically, we seek either their EPIC details or copies of Form 7 filed by them,” he said, adding, “At whose behest are these individuals operating? What are their intentions?”
Call for Verification
he AAP convenor urged the DEO to halt any further voter deletions unless they involve cases of migration or death. He emphasized that any deletions must follow thorough on-ground verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in the presence of Booth Level Agents (BLAs) from all parties.
“To safeguard the integrity of the electoral process, I strongly urge that no further voter deletions be carried out in the constituency unless it is a case of migration or death, duly supported by a death certificate,” Kejriwal wrote.
Accusations Against BJP
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Kejriwal accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of orchestrating an “Operation Lotus” in his constituency. He alleged the BJP had filed applications to delete 5,000 votes and add 7,500 new voters since December 15.
“In these 15 days, they have filed applications for the deletion of 5,000 votes and the addition of 7,500 votes,” Kejriwal said. “Why is there a need to conduct elections if you are manipulating approximately 12 per cent of total voters in the assembly? A kind of ‘game’ is being played in the name of elections.”
He further accused the BJP of employing tactics used in other states, including Haryana and Maharashtra, to influence the outcome of elections dishonestly.
Rising Political Tensions
As the Delhi Assembly polls draw closer, the political battle between AAP, BJP, and Congress has intensified. All three parties have been leveling allegations at each other as they prepare for the crucial electoral showdown.
The New Delhi Assembly Constituency, represented by Kejriwal since 2013, remains a significant battleground in the upcoming elections.
