BJP seeks ID checks for burqa-clad voters; Samajwadi Party protests police role

As voting commenced for nine Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh today, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) raised concerns about voter identity verification for burqa-clad individuals. BJP leader Akhilesh Kumar Awasthi, in a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer, demanded stringent ID checks to prevent potential electoral fraud. He alleged that instances of burqa-clad voters attempting to cast multiple votes had occurred in past elections, including cases where men disguised in burqas tried to vote. "Only proper checking will ensure fair and transparent voting," Awasthi wrote, suggesting the deployment of women police officers at polling stations for thorough checks.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) criticized the involvement of police officers in voter ID verification. Party chief Akhilesh Yadav posted a video showing police officers checking voters' identity cards and accused them of slowing down the voting process. He urged the Election Commission to intervene, warning that such practices could deter voters. Yadav called on voters who might have left without casting their votes due to police actions to return and exercise their rights.

Kanpur police quickly responded to the allegations, announcing the suspension of the officers involved. The Election Commission, which oversees law enforcement during elections, has yet to make an official statement on the incident.

The BJP and SP clash comes amidst voting in key constituencies, including Karhal, Ghaziabad, and Sisamau. These bypolls were necessitated after several sitting MLAs, including SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, were elected to the Lok Sabha earlier this year.

Yadav’s comments also included a broader appeal to voters, encouraging them to report any irregularities to election officials or party representatives. "Go fearlessly and make sure you vote," he urged in a public statement, highlighting the importance of fair electoral processes.

The bypolls, seen as a litmus test for both parties, come at a politically charged time in Uttar Pradesh. Allegations of voter suppression and electoral misconduct continue to dominate headlines as both BJP and SP position themselves for upcoming electoral battles.