The Election Commission has commenced the implementation of the Supreme Court's directives regarding the SIR process in West Bengal. The Commission has commanded the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal to execute all revisions in line with the Supreme Court's instructions. Furthermore, the Commission has urged the Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal, the Police Commissioner of Kolkata, and all district magistrates and police superintendents to ensure strict law-and-order measures during the SIR.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar has assured the citizens of West Bengal that no one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands, and strict action will be taken in such cases. On January 19, the Supreme Court, while hearing petitions in this regard, issued several orders to the Election Commission. The Commission’s recent moves are in compliance with those court mandates.
The directives issued by the Commission for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in West Bengal require that discrepancies related to names under the logical category be displayed by January 24. These discrepancies will be shown in public spaces like Gram Panchayat Bhavans, block offices, and city ward offices. Details of logical discrepancies will also be published for transparency.
A voter’s authorized representative can be a Booth Level Agent (BLA). The voter must provide an authorization letter with their signature or thumbprint. The Chief Executive Officer shall designate a Gram Panchayat Bhavan, Block Office, or Ward Office. Designated areas near each polling station will be determined for document submission and hearings. After names are displayed, affected appellants or their nominees can submit documents, objections, or claims at the Panchayat Bhavan, Block, or Ward Office within ten days.
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According to the Commission, those who haven't yet submitted their claims, documents, or objections may do so within the extended period. They are granted special permission for this. Apart from providing an opportunity for submission to all affected individuals, the ERO/AERO will also listen to the documents, materials, or objections either personally or through an authorized representative. After reviewing all facts, they will make suitable decisions. The officer handling the documents or listening to affected individuals will also certify the submissions and conduct.
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The Election Commission also affirmed that the authorization letter, if any, along with the certificate of receipt of documents and conduct, shall be uploaded to the BLO app. During hearings, the claimant voter may present a secondary examination admit card, i.e., Class 10 examination admit card (showing date of birth), apart from the secondary pass certificate. All concerned officials are directed to strictly adhere to these provisions.
