A viral video has forced India’s Election Commission to take immediate action. In this clip, which went viral on Wednesday morning, a person, whose name is being called Osama, claims that he has been living in India since 2008. He has an Aadhaar card, identity card and has also voted in the Indian elections, while he also has a Pakistani passport.
After the video went viral, the Election Commission has directed the Chief Electoral Officer of Jammu and Kashmir to investigate the matter and take necessary steps. It has been recommended to issue a show cause notice to the concerned Electoral Registration Officer (ERO).
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Only Indian citizens can register for voters
According to the Public Representation Act 1950, only Indian citizens can register as voters. The Election Commission has clarified that if Osama’s claim is found to be true, then an FIR will be registered against him. Form 6 – Under the registration of new voters – applicants have to clearly declare their Indian citizenship. Any false declaration is a punishable offense.
Election Commission started investigating the claim of viral video
The District Election Officer of Baramulla has taken cognizance of the case. The video allegedly seen that the person is registered without Indian citizenship in the voter list of 09-Uri assembly constituency. The DEO has instructed the concerned ERO to take appropriate action, started a detailed investigation, and asked to register an FIR.
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Case revealed after Pahalgam attack
The dispute has come to light after the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people lost their lives. In response, India canceled the visas of Pakistani citizens and suspended several bilateral agreements including the Indus Water Treaty. In response, Pakistan has indicated to reconsider all bilateral treaties with India, including the Shimla Agreement.