Debate on SIR Deferred in Lok Sabha Due to Sub-Judice Status: Rijiju

Quick Summary

• Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the Lok sabha cannot discuss the Special intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar as the matter is sub-judice and currently before the Supreme Court.
• Rijiju emphasized that parliamentary rules prohibit discussions on issues under judicial consideration (sub-judice matters).
• He also highlighted that discussions on autonomous institutions like the Election Commission of India are not allowed in Parliament.
• Opposition members have been demanding a discussion on SIR, alleging it aims to disenfranchise voters.Protests have disrupted multiple parliamentary sessions.
• Over 10 petitions opposing SIR have been filed with the Supreme Court, including those from opposition parties and NGOs such as ‘Association for Democratic Reforms.’
• Several MPs from INDIA bloc parties staged protests within Parliament House against SIR,calling for its rollback and a debate on its implications.
• Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the government’s refusal to discuss SIR during protests at Parliament House Complex.
• meanwhile, opposition leaders called for greater scrutiny of bills such as the National Sports Governance Bill, 2025.

Image: Kiren Rijiju addressing media in context; Source: PTI.

!Kiren-Rijiju–pti

Indian Opinion Analysis

The government’s decision to avoid a discussion on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) reflects adherence to procedural rules preventing debates on sub judice matters. As reiterated by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, this stance also safeguards parliamentary norms concerning autonomous institutions like India’s Election Commission. While valid within legal frameworks, this approach may contribute to heightened political tensions given widespread criticisms from opposition leaders.

Opposition concerns over possible voter disenfranchisement through SIR could have significant long-term consequences if proven correct. With petitions already filed before India’s judiciary challenging constitutionality, broader clarity will emerge following court decisions. the ongoing political impasse underscores deeper divisions regarding electoral transparency-a critical issue ahead of poll-bound Bihar elections.

Lastly, repeated disruptions over this topic detract attention from legislation under consideration like national sports reforms-bills holding their own importance but stalled amidst unrest.

Read More