CHANDIGARH, October 23, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday demanded the scrapping of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that the exercise threatens Indian democracy and calling for an impartial investigation into alleged irregularities and strict action against those responsible.
Addressing the Punjab Vidhan Sabha during a discussion on protecting citizens’ voting rights, Mann accused the BJP of manipulating electoral rolls by adding votes in its favour and deleting those of Opposition parties. He also alleged that elections in Bihar, West Bengal, Haryana and Maharashtra had been won through “Vote-Chori”. These allegations were made by the Chief Minister during his address.
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha subsequently passed a resolution opposing the SIR exercise by voice vote. Mann said every eligible citizen must be able to exercise their right to vote without fear of arbitrary exclusion, stressing that voting rights are fundamental to democratic participation.
Referring to the Constitution and the vision of Dr BR Ambedkar, the Chief Minister called for transparency and accountability in the electoral roll revision process. He also questioned the timing of objections raised in an Assembly constituency and referred to reported differences among Election Commissioners over the Commission’s decision-making process.
Mann further criticised the BJP-led Union Government over the functioning of central investigative agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), asserting that constitutional institutions must operate independently and without political pressure. Warning against an “elected dictatorship”, he said electoral victories must not become a means to weaken democratic institutions.
CM Mann Raises Concerns Over Investment and Farmers’ Interests
The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the Union Government’s approach towards Punjab’s efforts to attract international investment. He said his efforts to promote Punjab as an investment destination had encountered obstacles and called for greater transparency and accountability in the functioning of institutions.
Emphasising the importance of investment and employment for the state’s youth, Mann said Punjab’s economic progress should not be affected by political differences.
On international trade, the Chief Minister warned that proposed trade arrangements could put Indian agriculture under external pressure and affect farmers’ livelihoods. He stressed that any agreement involving agriculture should be examined transparently, with Parliament, state governments and farming communities given an opportunity to assess its implications.
Referring to the farmers’ movement, Mann said Punjab’s experience demonstrated the importance of peaceful democratic resistance in protecting people’s rights and livelihoods.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister appealed to citizens and democratic forces to rise above political differences and safeguard the Constitution, voting rights and the independence of constitutional institutions. He said protecting equality, justice and democratic freedom was a collective responsibility towards future generations.
