Senior Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has voiced criticism against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, drawing a comparison with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. This critique arises in the context of the ongoing issue surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Ramesh noted that during Rajiv Gandhi’s government, legislative action was taken to amend Article 326 of the Constitution, which lowered the minimum voting age from twenty-one to eighteen years. He highlighted this as a significant move that empowered the youth.

In a post on X, Ramesh stated that Rajiv Gandhi’s initiative reflected a commitment to youth empowerment, contrasting it sharply with the current situation under Modi’s administration. He asserted, “This is a Tale of Two PMs,” emphasising that one Prime Minister contributed positively to youth participation in elections while the other has taken measures that he believes are detrimental to new voters.

Allegations Against Modi’s Administration

Ramesh’s statements included direct allegations against Prime Minister Modi, claiming that the Special Summary Revisions of electoral rolls have been halted since 2024. He argued that these actions are preventing eligible Generation Z voters from being registered. The MP’s narrative suggests that the current government’s reluctance to facilitate these revisions stems from a fear of youth dissent and their aspirations.

He elaborated, stating, “One PM gave Gen Z the vote; the other is determined to snatch it away through underhanded means.” This assertion has sparked a broader conversation regarding the accessibility of the electoral process for younger voters amidst concerns raised about discrepancies within the electoral management practices.

This critique coincides with a report from the Indian Express, which indicated that two Election Commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, have raised significant objections to the SIR process, thereby highlighting ongoing concerns within the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Congress Leaders Raise Broader Electoral Concerns

Following Ramesh’s remarks, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, also expressed skepticism about the electoral processes leading up to the 2024 elections. He questioned why standard anti-incumbency trends that have historically impacted political parties in India appear to be absent for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Gandhi’s remarks suggested that there are underlying issues affecting electoral integrity, particularly accusing the ruling party of manipulating the election process.

Moreover, he alleged that the elections, including the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections, are being rigged. Gandhi claimed the individuals at the top of the list are conspirators, implicating Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who he alleges has contributed to the perceived irregularities in the electoral process.

He highlighted that concerns raised about the electoral system have not been addressed adequately. Gandhi referenced the ongoing challenges the integrity of the voting system faces and the importance of transparency and accountability from the leadership responsible for conducting elections.

The Congress party has consistently targeted the ECI, especially regarding the issues related to the Special Intensive Revision since the Bihar Assembly elections in 2025. The party’s sustained criticism underscores the ongoing tension between political parties in relation to electoral reforms and the management of voter registrations in India.

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