Amit Shah: During a Lok Sabha debate on the Special Immigrants Register (SIR), Amit Shah criticized Rahul Gandhi and the opposition, asking whether illegal immigrants should have the right to vote and decide India’s leaders, sparking political controversy.
Amit Shah’s Strong Criticism of SIR
Amit Shah defended the government’s move on SIR, stating that it is aimed at identifying illegal immigrants and safeguarding the rights of Indian citizens. He argued that allowing undocumented individuals to participate in elections could compromise the democratic process. Shah emphasized that SIR is meant to maintain the integrity of India’s electoral system and is not intended to unfairly target any community.
Targeting Rahul Gandhi and Opposition Leaders
The Home Minister directly criticized Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders for politicizing the issue. He accused them of creating unnecessary fear and controversy instead of focusing on the benefits of SIR, including national security and administrative clarity. Shah’s question, “Should illegal immigrants choose the CM and PM?”, underlined his point about protecting Indian citizens’ rights.
Opposition’s Concerns
Opposition leaders, led by Rahul Gandhi, expressed concerns that the SIR could be discriminatory and divisive. They argued that the process might marginalize specific communities and create fear among citizens. However, Amit Shah maintained that the government’s priority is transparency, citizen protection, and maintaining proper electoral records.
Reactions and Public Debate
Amit Shah’s comments ignited reactions both inside and outside Parliament. Many supporters praised his stance on protecting electoral integrity, while critics accused the government of using SIR for political leverage. The debate has highlighted the broader discussion about illegal immigration, citizenship, and voting rights in India.
