Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Oct 23: A Satyagraha opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was held at the Clock Tower here on Friday, October 23. Organised by the Dakshina Kannada district unit of the Prajaprabhutva Ulisi Andolana Samiti, the protest witnessed the participation of political leaders, social activists, and representatives of various religious and community organisations who raised concerns over the alleged exclusion of eligible voters and the protection of democratic rights.
Addressing the gathering, Anwar Sadat Bajattoor alleged that the SIR process could deprive eligible citizens, particularly those from minority, Dalit, Adivasi, and backward communities, of their voting rights. Criticising the BJP-led Union government, he questioned the Election Commission's approach to implementing the process and called for a united nationwide movement against SIR to safeguard the Constitution.
Karnataka Legislative Council member Ivan D'Souza stressed the importance of protecting the constitutional rights of citizens and safeguarding the democratic process. He called upon people across political, religious, and social backgrounds to unite against any attempt to undermine voting rights. Referring to the ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, he noted that despite restrictions on demonstrations, the movement against SIR has spread across the country.
Fr Vinod Mascarenhas criticised the reported restrictions on protests at Jantar Mantar and questioned the functioning of the Election Commission of India. He stressed that electoral institutions must protect the people's mandate and serve democratic principles. Calling for unity, he urged citizens to oppose alleged attempts to manipulate electoral rolls and work towards safeguarding democratic institutions.
The protest continued into the evening with speeches, revolutionary songs, and slogans such as "Vote Chor, Gaddi Chor", "ECI Down Down", "Modi-Shah Down Down", and "Mathada Hakku Zindabad". The gathering highlighted the importance of ensuring that every eligible citizen can participate in the democratic process.
The programme was attended by SDPI state president Ataullah Jokatte, state Women's Congress general secretary Neetha D'Souza, Bhim Army India Movement Karnataka state president Shaheen Tasneem, Mangaluru city SDPI president Ashraf Padoor, CPI(M) district leaders Ansar Bajal and Mohan K E, lawyer Vinod Mascarene, social activist Dilip Kadri, and representatives of the Raitha Sangha, Youth Congress, Mahila Congress, and migrant workers' organisations.
Religious representatives included Zafar Sadiq Faizi of Kudroli Jumma Masjid, Mohammad Shafi Kousari of Talapady Jumma Masjid, and representatives of the Catholic Sabha, along with members of various civil society groups.