SIR row: Amit Shah challenges Opposition to debate; voter ID welfare link sparks row

UPDATED: Nov 3, 2026 20:53 IST

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has challenged the Opposition to a debate on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Parliament, offering to convene a special session if the House is allowed to function. The challenge follows the Opposition's demand for a discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah also criticised Opposition parties for holding a mock Parliament, saying that carrying the Constitution does not amount to genuine respect for constitutional values.

Meanwhile, a proposal to link Panchayati Raj welfare benefits to voter ID cards and biometric authentication instead of Aadhaar has triggered another political debate amid the SIR controversy. Union Panchayati Raj Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said beneficiaries would need to provide their Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number and complete biometric authentication to receive scheme payouts. Opposition parties have raised concerns that alleged voter deletions during the SIR exercise could leave eligible people unable to access welfare benefits. The Election Commission, however, has said flagged entries do not automatically mean wrongful deletions and that eligible voters can apply for inclusion in electoral rolls.

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