Is the SIR Essential for Correcting Voter Rolls and Demographic Records in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The Special Intensive Revision by the Election Commission is anticipated to uncover discrepancies in voter records, potentially reducing the population count in West Bengal. This initiative aims to address the issue of illegal infiltrators on the voters' list, sparking concerns among political leaders regarding the integrity of demographic data.
Key Takeaways
- Special Intensive Revision (SIR) aims to correct voter rolls.
- Anticipated reduction in West Bengal's population figures.
- Concerns raised about inaccuracies in demographic records.
- Illegal infiltrators may flee during the revision process.
- Importance of electoral integrity emphasized by political leaders.
Kolkata, Nov 22 (NationPress) The current Special Intensive Revision (SIR) conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) is expected to lead to a reduction in the population figures of West Bengal while also rectifying demographic records in the region. This is due to the anticipated departure of numerous illegal infiltrators who had previously registered on the voters' list during this process.
The remarks from the BJP emerged in light of a peculiar case revealed during the SIR, where the age of a son listed on the enumeration form exceeds that of his mother.
Amit Malviya, the Chief of BJP's Information Technology Cell and the party's central observer for West Bengal, along with Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, pointed out an anomaly. They noted a record indicating that while the son is currently 76 years old, his mother is only 65.
In booth No. 264 of the Ramnagar village panchayat within the Bangaon (South) assembly segment in the North 24 Parganas district, a 76-year-old voter named Abdul Majid Sheikh was not found in the 2002 voter list.
“According to the present voter list (Serial No. 314), he is listed as 76 years old. This implies that he should have been an adult during the 2002 SIR and eligible to vote multiple times since then, yet his name was absent. The surprising part (although it’s not shocking anymore under Mamata Banerjee's administration): the woman he claims as his mother, Yachhimon Sheikh, is documented as 42 years old in the 2002 voter list, which means that 23 years later, she is now 65,” Malviya shared on social media.
Both leaders raised concerns regarding the ridiculousness of a mother being younger than her son by 11 years. They also alleged that Abdul Majid Sheikh's three sons have submitted SIR forms designating Yachhimon Sheikh as their grandmother.
Malviya highlighted that such cases of individuals impersonating each other as family members are emerging widely, with numerous similar instances becoming apparent.
“If the SIR is executed thoroughly, the population count in West Bengal will certainly decrease, and the demographic records will be rectified. Should these allegations prove valid, I call upon the Election Commission to initiate an FIR against this individual and ensure appropriate punitive action,” Malviya stated.
Point of View
The ongoing Special Intensive Revision is a necessary step toward ensuring the accuracy of voter lists and demographic data. The allegations raised by BJP leaders highlight the importance of vigilance in maintaining electoral integrity. It is crucial that the Election Commission addresses these issues transparently to reinforce public trust in the democratic process.
NationPress
23/11/2025
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 correct the electoral rolls, ensuring that the voter lists are accurate and reflect the current demographic reality.
Why is the SIR important for West Bengal?
The SIR is crucial for West Bengal as it aims to identify and eliminate records of illegal infiltrators from the voter list, thereby correcting demographic data and ensuring fair representation in the electoral process.
What allegations have been made regarding voter records?
Recent allegations from BJP leaders point to discrepancies where the ages of voters listed are inconsistent, such as a son being older than his mother, raising concerns about the accuracy of the voter list.
How can the public participate in the SIR process?
The public can participate in the SIR process by verifying their own voter information, reporting discrepancies, and ensuring that their details are correctly reflected in the electoral rolls.
What actions can be taken if discrepancies are found?
If discrepancies are identified, individuals can report them to the Election Commission, which is responsible for investigating and rectifying errors in the voter lists.
