In a meeting held this week at the Mangalore Public Hall, the Catholic Diocese of Mangalore’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) committee appealed to the President of India for an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in the voter‑list revision process and the conduct of Chief Election Commissioner Jnanesh Kumar.
The committee, represented by Rev. Fr. Rupesh Madt and Rev. Fr. Castillo, met District Collector Darsan H.V. in his office within the public hall. Through the collector, they conveyed their formal request to the President, emphasizing the need for a neutral inquiry.
According to the petition, discrepancies in the electoral rolls – including the potential removal of eligible voters and the insertion of ineligible names – threaten the credibility of India’s democratic framework. The Catholic Church stressed that accurate voter lists are essential for every citizen to exercise the constitutional right to vote.
While acknowledging that eliminating fraudulent entries is a legitimate administrative step, the committee warned that the process must adhere to constitutional provisions, applicable election laws, and principles of natural justice. It urged the establishment of robust safeguards to prevent wrongful deletion of qualified voters, and called for transparent mechanisms for verification, correction, and reinstatement of names.
The appeal also highlighted concerns about the decision‑making procedures of the Election Commission of India and the institutional accountability of its officials. The committee demanded that any findings be based on evidence and that remedial action follow due legal process.
Key recommendations include: conducting a thorough, unbiased inquiry into alleged misconduct during the SIR process; reviewing the actions of Chief Election Commissioner Jnanesh Kumar in line with constitutional and legal standards; protecting eligible voters from wrongful removal; ensuring public access to verifiable data on additions, deletions, and complaints while safeguarding personal information; and instituting disciplinary measures if abuse of power or legal violations are proven.
Representatives of the Mangalore Diocese who signed the petition include President Santosh D. Soj, former president and political activist Stanly Lobo, General Secretary Wilma Monterro, Care Board Secretary Usha Fernandes, Vice‑President Sunil Monis, and Varda President (name omitted). The Church reiterated its commitment to upholding the Election Commission’s independence, impartiality, and public trust, and called for transparent, accountable voter‑list revisions in future elections.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK