Union Minister Critiques Congress on Rajasthan’s SIR Debate

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Union Minister for Jal Shakti, has publicly criticized the Congress party’s inconsistent stance on the Special Investment Region (SIR) initiative in Rajasthan. Speaking to the press on Saturday, Shekhawat emphasized that the SIR is essential for the state’s development, countering Congress’s opposition with a call for clarity in their position.

Shekhawat pointed out the contradictions in Congress’s approach, noting their objection to the SIR in Bihar during election preparations, while now opposing it in Rajasthan, claiming it was being implemented without electoral pressures. “I think SIR is not an issue but a necessity… They should take one stand… They should decide what they want,” he stated during his remarks to ANI. His comments reflect growing tensions surrounding the implementation of the SIR in Rajasthan, which has become a focal point of political debate.

Congress Raises Concerns Over SIR Process

In response, senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot expressed serious concerns regarding the SIR process, alleging significant irregularities and distress among the public and officials. Speaking in Jaipur, Pilot highlighted that the SIR initiative has historically taken place without public fear, a sentiment that has shifted in the current climate. “Earlier when SIR occurred, there was neither any discussion nor any fear in people’s minds. But for the first time, people are troubled by this,” he remarked.

Pilot backed his claims by referencing reports from Bihar, where he alleged that “the names of lakhs of people have been removed” from electoral rolls during the verification process. He criticized the limited time provided to the public to respond, raising alarms about the pressure being placed on Booth Level Officers (BLOs). “In many states, BLOs are committing suicide, while some are complaining; they are under so much stress,” he asserted, underscoring the human impact of the contentious SIR initiative.

Upcoming Electoral Changes and Implications

The backdrop of this political discourse is the recent announcement by the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across twelve states and Union Territories. This phase is set to culminate with the final voter list being published on February 7, 2026. The first phase of the SIR was completed in Bihar ahead of the state’s Assembly elections, adding further urgency to the ongoing discussions surrounding electoral processes and regional development projects.

As the debate continues, both the Congress party and the ruling government in Rajasthan face pressure to articulate their positions clearly. The outcome of this political tussle will likely have significant implications for the future of investment and development in the region, highlighting the complex interplay between political strategy and public welfare.