Daijiworld Media Network – Datia

Datia, Nov 25: A controversy erupted in Madhya Pradesh’s Datia district after several individuals reportedly linked to the BJP and RSS were appointed as assistants to booth-level officers (BLOs) for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The district administration later termed the inclusion an “inadvertent mistake” and initiated steps to remove the names.

The opposition Congress criticised the move, alleging that the ruling BJP was influencing the electoral revision. State Congress president Jitu Patwari shared a copy of the official list on social media, claiming that at least four appointees were BJP members or office-bearers.

Datia Collector Swapnil Wankhade clarified that three politically affiliated names were wrongly included. “I did not issue the order. It was issued by the SDM of the Datia assembly, who received the list from officials. These persons are being removed. There was no mala fide intention,” he said, adding that the SDM had been asked to explain the oversight.

Among those named, Manish Mishra said he did not hold any formal position in the BJP and described himself as a “small-time worker,” while Bobby Raja denied any association with the BJP or RSS, stating that he was appointed solely to assist in the SIR exercise. Two other appointees could not be contacted.

Patwari accused the administration of politically manipulating a constitutional exercise, saying, “When the party in power begins to colour every institution in its own shade, democracy suffers. Congress will oppose any misuse of the electoral process.”

Responding to the controversy, BJP spokesperson Shivam Shukla said the SIR is a nationwide exercise and minor issues are expected. “Political parties are free to approach the Election Commission. The BJP believes this exercise should be fair and transparent,” he added.