Samajwadi Party leader Ramgopal Yadav criticizes the SIR system in Uttar Pradesh, calling it an unnecessary mechanism aimed at helping the government retain power. He argues that India’s electoral process has operated smoothly since 1952 and warns that unconventional political tactics can undermine democratic credibility.

Opposition leaders from the INDIA bloc held a major protest at Makar Dwar in New Delhi, accusing the BJP of pushing the SIR initiative in a rushed and undemocratic manner. Demonstrators called for the measure’s reconsideration and demanded adherence to established democratic procedures and deliberative norms.