Politics
Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Rajiv Ranjan Singh Over Voter‑ID‑Based Welfare Claims
Rahul Gandhi criticized Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, for saying that eligibility for government schemes would shift from Aadhaar to voter IDs and biometrics. Gandhi called the minister’s remarks a “deeply sinister plot” and said they represented “theft of rights” beyond mere “vote chori.” He posted a video of Singh on X, noting that the minister had announced the change and warned that millions of names are being struck off electoral rolls, primarily targeting those opposed to the BJP. Gandhi alleged that the electoral roll is being managed by a Modi‑government official, Gyanesh Kumar, who is colluding with the BJP to secure a permanent majority. He warned that the new system could make people “invisible” citizens, with their rights and benefits tied to voter IDs. Gandhi said the plan could affect Panchayati Raj schemes today and future programs such as rations, pensions, MNREGA, housing, scholarships, and reservations. He pledged that the government would not allow such a system. Singh responded by accusing Gandhi of “distorting facts” and said the government is committed to ensuring benefits reach genuine beneficiaries directly. He explained that the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana uses EPIC numbers and Aadhaar authentication for training and guidance of Panchayat representatives. Singh also stated that payments to beneficiaries would be processed using biometrics and voter ID (EPIC) numbers, without detailing which schemes would use the EPIC number. The exchange took place on October 30 during the National Workshop on People’s Plan Campaign 2026‑27.
Frequently asked questions
What did Rahul Gandhi criticize about Rajiv Ranjan Singh's proposal?
He criticized the minister's claim that eligibility for government schemes would shift from Aadhaar to voter IDs and biometrics, calling it a "deeply sinister plot" that threatens citizens' rights.
What system did Rajiv Ranjan Singh say would be used for payments to beneficiaries?
He said payments would be processed using biometrics and voter ID (EPIC) numbers, though he did not specify which schemes would use EPIC.
When and where did the exchange between Rahul Gandhi and Rajiv Ranjan Singh take place?
The exchange occurred on October 30 during the National Workshop on People’s Plan Campaign 2026‑27.