Will ECI Take Strong Action Against Security Breaches in Bengal?
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Synopsis
As the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision in West Bengal approaches, significant assurances have been made regarding the safety of electoral officers. Will the ECI uphold its commitment to security amid rising tensions?
Key Takeaways
- The ECI's SIR in West Bengal is set to begin after October 15.
- Electoral officials have received strong assurances regarding their security.
- Any breach of security will be met with strict action.
- The West Bengal government is responsible for the safety of its electoral officers.
- Political tensions are heightening amid accusations from the Chief Minister.
Kolkata, Oct 10 (NationPress) In light of the upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) by the Election Commission of India in West Bengal, set to commence post-October 15, electoral officials have received a firm commitment that the ECI will take decisive action against any breach of security involving officers during the revision's on-field activities.
The pledge was made by a central ECI team, headed by Deputy Election Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti, during a meeting with district electoral officials from East Midnapore, Jhargram, and Bankura on Thursday.
Given that booth-level officers (BLOs) will primarily engage in field work throughout the revision process, special assurances were provided regarding their safety. The ECI's central team emphasized that even one incident of security breach involving an electoral officer would be met with stern measures, placing the responsibility on the West Bengal government to safeguard these officials, as per an insider from the Chief Electoral Officer’s (CEO) office.
The meeting took place at Kolaghat in East Midnapore district. “While the central ECI team warned district electoral officials about potential disciplinary actions for any lapses in conducting the SIR process, they also reassured them of implementing all possible precautions to avert any security breaches during the revision,” the CEO’s office source disclosed.
Meanwhile, the Assembly's Leader of Opposition (LOP), Suvendu Adhikari, has demanded ECI intervention against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly making unfounded accusations against certain Commission officials, particularly targeting CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal.
On Thursday, at a media briefing at the state secretariat, Banerjee, without directly naming Agarwal, remarked that a specific officer who remains in West Bengal has faced multiple “corruption charges.”
“I will disclose these details when the time is right. I trust he will not exceed his authority. He is unjustly intimidating state government officials. Why is the Commission convening meetings with booth-level officers when the ECI hasn’t yet taken control of the state administration?” the Chief Minister questioned on Wednesday.
In response to Banerjee's statements, the LOP expressed that such overt threats against the CEO, a constitutional authority of the ECI in the state, are deeply troubling.
“I call upon the Election Commission of India to promptly acknowledge this issue and take stringent measures against Mamata Banerjee for her continuous attempts to undermine the democratic process and intimidate constitutional officers. Additionally, I urge for Central Security to be granted to the CEO at both his Office and Residence to ensure his safety amidst the evident risks posed by these threats in a state marked by lawlessness,” Adhikari stated.
Point of View
The emphasis on security during the electoral process is paramount. The Election Commission's commitment to protecting its officials amidst political strife reaffirms the importance of maintaining a democratic environment. The situation warrants close monitoring as it unfolds.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process initiated by the Election Commission of India to update and maintain the accuracy of electoral rolls.
Why is the ECI concerned about security for electoral officers?
The ECI is concerned about the safety of electoral officers due to the potential for political tensions and threats during the electoral process.
What actions can the ECI take against security breaches?
The ECI has assured strong measures, including disciplinary action, against any incidents of security breaches involving electoral officers.
Who is responsible for the safety of electoral officials in West Bengal?
The West Bengal government is held accountable for ensuring the safety of electoral officials during the revision process.
What has the Leader of Opposition stated about the Chief Minister's remarks?
The Leader of Opposition has condemned the Chief Minister's comments as threats against the CEO and has called for immediate ECI action.
