Is the Outflow of Illegal Immigrants Linked to SIR? Bengal Governor Speaks
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Synopsis
West Bengal Governor C.V. Anand Bose reveals in an exclusive interview how the Special Intensive Review (SIR) initiative is not only tackling illegal immigration but also poised to impact the upcoming Assembly elections. Discover the implications of this significant process and what it means for the state's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Governor C.V. Anand Bose emphasizes the impact of the SIR process on illegal immigration.
- The SIR process is expected to influence upcoming Assembly elections.
- A significant number of illegal immigrants are reported to be leaving Bengal.
- The ECI has flagged over 58 lakh voter names for removal.
- The SIR process aims to cleanse the electoral system.
Kolkata, Dec 17 (NationPress) West Bengal's Governor C.V. Anand Bose stated on Wednesday that the Special Intensive Review (SIR) initiative has been instrumental in reducing the number of illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators since its inception in the state.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, he expressed confidence that the SIR process will significantly influence the upcoming Assembly elections and help in 'cleansing' the electoral framework as the state is experiencing a notable outflow of illegal immigrants.
"Infiltration has become evident since the SIR process was initiated. We are witnessing an outflow of illegal migrants leaving Bengal towards Bangladesh. This phenomenon has been thoroughly analyzed. Concerning its impact on elections, the SIR process will indeed facilitate a transformation. It will contribute to cleansing the system considerably," said Bose to IANS.
When queried about the Centre's claims that the SIR would assist in identifying and expelling the Bangladeshi infiltrators, as well as the influence of illegal immigrants on elections, the Governor acknowledged that while the issue would diminish, it would not be entirely resolved.
"Post-SIR, I believe the likelihood of Bangladeshi infiltrators affecting elections has diminished. I am not suggesting their complete eradication, but there is certainly a reduction," he remarked.
The SIR operation in Bengal commenced on December 4 and concluded on December 11, witnessing a significant departure of illegal Bangladeshis along with protests from booth-level officers (BLOs) due to intense deadlines and work pressures.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has published the draft electoral rolls for the forthcoming elections in West Bengal, following the contentious SIR process, which has flagged over 58 lakh voter names for removal.
The publication of the draft voter list marks the conclusion of the enumeration phase and the commencement of a more complex process involving claims, objections, and hearings.
The second stage of the three-part SIR process will continue until February 2026, with the final voters' list expected to be published on February 14, 2026, ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
According to data from the ECI, a total of 58,20,898 voter names have been flagged for deletion, comprising approximately 24,16,852 electors identified as deceased, 19,88,076 voters who have relocated permanently or migrated, 12,20,038 voters classified as missing, and 1,38,328 names identified as duplicates, false, or bogus entries. Additionally, 57,604 names have been recommended for removal for 'other reasons'.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the implications of Governor Bose's assertions regarding the SIR process and its potential influence on electoral integrity. The focus on illegal immigration highlights a pressing issue that resonates nationally, and its effects on the electoral process warrant attention.
NationPress
17/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process?
The SIR process is an initiative aimed at identifying and addressing illegal immigration in West Bengal, focusing particularly on Bangladeshi infiltrators.
How has the SIR process affected illegal immigration?
Governor C.V. Anand Bose claims that the SIR process has led to a notable outflow of illegal immigrants from Bengal back to Bangladesh.
What impact does the SIR process have on upcoming elections?
The Governor believes that the SIR process will cleanse the electoral system, potentially reducing the influence of illegal immigrants on the elections.
What are the statistics regarding voter deletions due to the SIR?
The Election Commission has flagged over 58 lakh voter names for removal, including deceased voters and others who have moved or are duplicates.
When will the final voters' list be published?
The final voters' list is scheduled for publication on February 14, 2026, ahead of the Bengal Assembly elections.
