Since 1999, the right to vote has been snatched away from Sumitra and 120 families like hers. Labelled as Bangladeshi infiltrators, they have been denied their fundamental democratic right. Sumitra’s journey began in 1984 when she left Rudraprayag with her family and settled in Ganganagar, only to face unjust circumstances.
Background: Deception and Displacement
Sumitra recounts how her family was coerced into sterilization in exchange for land, a promise that was never fulfilled. Dumped in a remote village on the banks of the Ganga, they struggled to make ends meet. Despite living in India for decades, they are now deemed as outsiders.
Facing Injustice: Denied Citizenship and Voting Rights
For 25 years, Ganganagar, located just 80 km from Delhi, has remained unnoticed. Residents possess Aadhar and PAN cards but lack essential certificates. In 2004, during elections, they discovered their names were absent from voter lists. Authorities accused them of being Bangladeshi immigrants, disregarding their Indian citizenship.
Fighting Back: Seeking Recognition
Nitin, the most educated villager, holds evidence proving their Indian citizenship. Yet, bureaucratic hurdles persist, depriving them of basic amenities such as education and safety for their children.
The Path to Redemption: Striving for Voting Eligibility
Tehsildar Seema assures the villagers of a fair investigation process to obtain voter cards. However, the road ahead remains uncertain. Will these marginalized citizens reclaim their right to vote in the upcoming elections?
Conclusion: A Call for Justice
As the media and administration are called upon to shed light on their plight, the fate of Ganganagar hangs in the balance.
Will they be able to exercise their constitutional right to vote, or will they continue to be sidelined and marginalized? Only time will tell as their struggle for recognition and justice persists.
