Tuesday saw a new round of opposition protests in the Lok Sabha over the purported removal of 65 lakh Bihar voters during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the election records, which caused several disruptions all day. Despite the unrest, the administration managed to enact “The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2025,” a landmark law that gives Scheduled Tribes (STs) a seat in the Goa Assembly.
Opposition Targets Alleged Disenfranchisement in Bihar
The uproar stemmed from revelations that 65 lakh voters were reportedly deleted from Bihar’s rolls during a recent SIR exercise. Opposition parties accused the Election Commission and the central government of allowing a “deliberate and targeted disenfranchisement” of voters, particularly from marginalized communities.
Shouting slogans and raising placards, Opposition MPs demanded an independent probe and accountability from the Election Commission, terming the act a “blow to democracy.”
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Government Moves Ahead with Goa ST Quota Bill
Despite the ruckus, the government went ahead with its legislative agenda. When the House reconvened, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal was called to move the Goa ST Quota Bill for consideration and passage. The Opposition remained on its feet, continuing protests, but the bill was cleared without debate.
The legislation aims to restructure assembly constituencies in Goa to ensure representation for Scheduled Tribes—a move long demanded by tribal groups in the coastal state.
No Debate, No Discussion: Opposition Cries Foul
Opposition parties criticized the way the bill was passed, “without discussion, without consensus,” and accused the government of undermining democratic norms. As protests intensified, Sandhya Ray, who was in the chair, adjourned proceedings for the day.
The bill’s passage amid protests has sparked fresh tension within the Parliament, even as the Opposition signals plans to intensify pressure over the Bihar voter list controversy in upcoming sessions.
