Punjab Assembly Passes Resolution to Protect Voting Rights Under SIR, Seeks Constitutional Protection from the Centre

October 23, 2026

Chandigarh: The Punjab Assembly on Friday unanimously passed a resolution to protect the voting rights of eligible citizens during the revision of voter lists under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The resolution, introduced by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, demanded the central government and relevant constitutional bodies take necessary steps to protect voting rights.

The resolution emphasized ensuring a transparent and impartial investigation of discrepancies in voter lists and ensuring accountability in the electoral process.

Every eligible citizen must have the right to vote: Cheema

Addressing the Assembly, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that protecting the voting rights of every eligible citizen is essential to strengthening Indian democracy. He said that the Indian Constitution is based on the principles of equality, justice, and the supremacy of the people.

Citing Articles 324, 325, and 326 of the Constitution, Cheema said they play a crucial role in overseeing the electoral system, preventing discrimination in voter lists, and ensuring universal suffrage for adult citizens.

He also recalled the pre-independence era when voting rights were limited to select sections of society. Paying tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, he said he laid the constitutional foundation for equal voting rights for every adult citizen.

Expressed concern over complaints of deletions from voter lists

Cheema expressed concern over reports of large-scale deletions of names from voter lists and exclusion of eligible voters. He said that the revision of voter lists in various parts of the country has raised serious questions about the fairness of the electoral process.

He said that to maintain public confidence in democratic institutions, it is essential to ensure that no eligible voter is excluded from the list and that every citizen’s voting rights are protected.

Referring to previous controversies surrounding voter lists in Delhi and other states, the Finance Minister also highlighted complaints alleging selective targeting of supporters of opposition parties and marginalized communities.

He demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into such complaints. He added that if evidence establishes a deliberate attempt to undermine the electoral process, strict criminal action should be taken under the law.

Demand for Accountability and Impartial Investigation of the Election Commission

Cheema demanded the establishment of an independent, transparent, and credible system under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to investigate alleged irregularities in the functioning of the electoral administration and voter lists.

He stated that the institutional autonomy, impartiality, and accountability of the Election Commission are crucial for the functioning and survival of a constitutional democracy.

Through the resolution, the Punjab Assembly urged the Central Government and relevant constitutional bodies to ensure constitutional safeguards for voting rights, conduct an impartial investigation into alleged irregularities in the voter lists, and hold accountable any irregularities found.

The Assembly also decided that copies of the resolution would be sent to the President, Prime Minister and Chief Election Commissioner for appropriate action.