US Congresswoman raises alarm over India’s move to remove 130 million voters

WASHINGTON: US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal has expressed serious concern over measures by the Indian government that could result in 130 million people being removed from voter lists, warning that such actions risk undermining democratic rights.

Jayapal said the reported measures in India appeared similar to efforts by the administration of US President Donald Trump that she believes weaken voting rights in the United States.

The American lawmaker also voiced support for Indian citizens peacefully protesting against what she described as anti-democratic actions.

Her remarks, reported on October 16, have drawn attention to concerns over voter registration, electoral participation and the protection of democratic freedoms in the world’s largest democracy.

Jayapal’s comments focused on the potential consequences of removing large numbers of people from electoral rolls, a process that could affect citizens’ ability to participate in elections if their eligibility or registration is challenged.

She did not, in the statement cited in the report, provide further details about the specific measures or the circumstances surrounding the reported figure of 130 million people.

The issue has broader implications for electoral transparency and the right to vote, particularly when changes to voter lists affect large sections of the population.

Jayapal said she stood with Indians peacefully demonstrating against measures they consider a threat to democracy, signalling her opposition to policies that could restrict political participation.

Meanwhile, prominent Indian journalist Suhasini Haidar also shared the US congresswoman’s statement on social media, bringing further attention to the issue.

The reported voter-list changes come amid wider debates about democratic institutions, electoral safeguards and the responsibilities of governments to ensure eligible citizens can exercise their voting rights.

The controversy highlights the importance of transparent voter-registration procedures and effective mechanisms for people to challenge removals from electoral rolls.

Further details about the scope of the proposed deletions and their potential impact on affected voters were not provided in the report.