Why Did ECI Reject Bengal Government’s Plea for Swastha Sathi and Ration Cards?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant decision, the Election Commission of India has denied West Bengal's request to accept Swastha Sathi and ration cards as valid documents in the forthcoming special intensive revision. This development raises questions about identity verification and the implications for voter registration in the state.
Key Takeaways
- The ECI has rejected the inclusion of Swastha Sathi and ration cards in the special intensive revision.
- The decision aims for uniformity across all Indian states regarding voter identity documentation.
- The ruling party in West Bengal has expressed significant opposition to the revision process.
- The Supreme Court has mandated the inclusion of Aadhaar cards as valid identity evidence.
- Political tensions continue to rise as the assembly polls approach.
Kolkata, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday turned down the request from the West Bengal government to include Swastha Sathi and ration or PDS cards as acceptable documents in the proposed special intensive revision for the state.
The Swastha Sathi cards are linked to the West Bengal government’s health insurance initiative, with premium costs covered by the state. Both Swastha Sathi and ration cards are identity documents issued by the state.
Recently, the Supreme Court directed the ECI to accept Aadhaar cards as valid identity evidence during the special intensive revision.
This revision process has already been completed in Bihar, which is gearing up for assembly elections this year.
Following the court's directive on including Aadhaar cards, West Bengal Chief Secretary Manoj Pant wrote to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Manoj Kumar Agarwal, earlier this month, urging him to advocate for the inclusion of Swastha Sathi and ration cards as valid identity documentation.
However, a source from the CEO's office revealed on Thursday that the ECI has informed the state that the inclusion of Swastha Sathi and ration cards is not feasible.
“The commission dismissed the state’s arguments for including Swastha Sathi cards, stating that all personal data of any West Bengal resident is verified by state authorities before these cards are issued, hence they cannot be used as proof of citizenship in the voter registry. Similarly, the state contended that ration cards could assist in identifying numerous individuals,” the insider stated.
Sources indicate that the commission emphasized the need for a consistent rule across all Indian states for this special intensive revision, asserting that no exceptions would be granted to West Bengal.
Since its inception, Chief Minister and the ruling Trinamool Congress have opposed the special intensive revision in West Bengal. The Chief Minister argues that the intent behind this revision is to impose NRC and CAA measures in the state.
Conversely, the BJP claims that the Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee oppose the revision out of concern that the names of numerous illegal Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators may be removed from the voters' list following the revision exercise.
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased perspective on the recent rejection by the ECI of the West Bengal government's plea. This decision underscores the importance of standardized protocols across all states while highlighting the ongoing political tensions surrounding voter identity verification. It is vital to ensure that every citizen's voice is represented fairly in the electoral process.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the plea made by the West Bengal government?
The West Bengal government requested the inclusion of Swastha Sathi and ration cards as acceptable documents for the special intensive revision proposed by the Election Commission of India.
Why did the ECI reject the plea?
The ECI rejected the plea to maintain uniformity in the rules for all states, emphasizing that no exceptions could be made for West Bengal.
What are Swastha Sathi cards?
Swastha Sathi cards are identity documents linked to West Bengal's health insurance scheme, with the state covering the premium costs.
What did the Supreme Court direct regarding identity documents?
The Supreme Court directed the ECI to include Aadhaar cards as valid identity evidence for the special intensive revision.
What are the political implications of this decision?
The decision has intensified the ongoing political debate in West Bengal, with the ruling party opposing the special intensive revision, fearing it may lead to the exclusion of certain voters.
