Is the SIR Enumeration Form Distribution Deadline Ending Today in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The countdown to the deadline for the distribution of enumeration forms for the Special Intensive Revision in Bengal is nearly up. With only hours to go, officials are optimistic about completing the task. What does this mean for voters and the political landscape in the state?
Key Takeaways
- Deadline Alert: The distribution of enumeration forms concludes today.
- Distribution Progress: Approximately 70 lakh forms remain to be distributed.
- Political Tension: The SIR process has intensified political debates in the state.
- Document Requirements: Voters must provide specified documents if their names are missing from the 2002 list.
- Historical Context: The last SIR was conducted in 2002.
Kolkata, Nov 14 (NationPress) The new deadline for the distribution of enumeration forms related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) set by the Election Commission of India (ECI) will conclude on Friday, with approximately 70 lakh forms still awaiting distribution.
Officials from the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) office in West Bengal are optimistic that, based on the average daily distribution rates since the process commenced on November 4, they will successfully distribute the remaining 70 lakh forms by the end of the extended deadline.
According to data from the CEO's office, as of 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, a total of 6.98 crore (91.19 percent) enumeration forms have been disseminated in the state. The total number of electors in West Bengal, according to the electoral roll as of October 27, stands at 7,66,37,529.
The initial deadline for form distribution was November 11, but around 15 percent of voters had yet to receive their forms.
Consequently, November 14 was established as the revised deadline for completing the distribution of enumeration forms. This completion will also signify the conclusion of the first phase in the three-stage SIR process in West Bengal.
The first phase of the SIR began on November 4, with the entire process projected to be finalized by March of the following year. The last SIR in West Bengal took place in 2002.
Voters whose names or their parents' names were absent from the 2002 voter list must submit one of the 11 documents specified by the Commission to maintain their names on the electoral rolls.
Voters whose names or their parents' names appeared in the 2002 electoral list must provide any one of the 11 identity documents recognized by the ECI.
The political climate in West Bengal surrounding the SIR has intensified since Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced the initiative.
The Trinamool Congress has consistently opposed this exercise, asserting that SIR is a tactic by the Union government to impose the National Register of Citizens (NRC) within the state.
Conversely, the BJP argues that the Trinamool Congress' resistance stems from concerns that the names of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya voters may be excluded from the electoral rolls.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of the ongoing enumeration process in West Bengal. The SIR is not only pivotal for electoral integrity but also highlights the intense political dynamics at play. It is crucial for all stakeholders to approach this with transparency and accountability to uphold democratic values.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India to update the electoral rolls and ensure that all eligible voters are registered.
Why is there a new deadline for form distribution?
The new deadline was set because around 15 percent of voters had not received their enumeration forms by the initial deadline of November 11.
What documents do voters need to provide?
Voters whose names are not on the 2002 voter list need to submit one of the 11 specified documents to retain their names on the electoral rolls.
When was the last SIR conducted in West Bengal?
The last SIR in West Bengal was held in 2002.
What are the political implications of the SIR?
The SIR has sparked significant political debate in West Bengal, with some parties claiming it could lead to the exclusion of certain voters, while others argue it is necessary for electoral integrity.
