Should Special Roll Observers in Bengal Seek CAPF Protection?
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Synopsis
Special roll observers in West Bengal are advocating for CAPF protection during the Special Intensive Revision process, raising concerns over their safety while highlighting political tensions in the region. This situation unfolds amid protests and controversial remarks from the Chief Minister, making it a pivotal moment for the state's electoral integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Special roll observers in West Bengal are calling for CAPF protection.
- They have suggested magisterial powers as an alternative.
- Political tensions are evident with recent protests.
- Chief Minister's remarks have sparked controversy.
- The safety of electoral officials is crucial for the democratic process.
Kolkata, Dec 12 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has appointed special roll observers in West Bengal to oversee the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. These observers have requested security support from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) while performing their duties in the field for the revision process.
On Friday afternoon, a request was formally sent to the ECI headquarters in New Delhi, confirmed sources within the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal.
In case the provision of CAPF protection is not feasible, the observers proposed an alternative: granting them magisterial powers. This would enable the security forces assigned to them to act under the observers’ directives while the state police would continue to ensure their safety.
Sources within the CEO's office have indicated that these two alternative proposals were forwarded to the ECI headquarters on Friday, following a recent protest incident on Thursday, where special roll observer C. Murugan faced opposition while monitoring the SIR of the voter list in the South 24 Parganas district. The protest was led by women supporters of the Trinamool Congress in the Falta area.
Additionally, the special roll observers have called for the ECI to examine remarks made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during an anti-SIR rally in Krishnanagar, Nadia district, on Thursday. They allege that her comments incited women voters against the electoral officials involved in the revision.
“Mothers and sisters, prepare your cooking utensils if they remove your names from the voters’ list. Do you have the courage to act? Will you let them get away with it? Women will lead the charge, while men will support them from behind. I want to know if the BJP’s strength surpasses that of our mothers and sisters,” the Chief Minister stated at the rally on Thursday.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the delicate balance between electoral integrity and safety for officials conducting vital democratic processes. The call for CAPF protection highlights the escalating tensions in West Bengal, and we must remain committed to reporting on these developments with fairness and thoroughness, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of special roll observers?
Special roll observers are appointed to oversee the electoral roll revision process, ensuring its accuracy and fairness.
Why are the observers requesting CAPF protection?
The observers are seeking CAPF protection to ensure their safety while conducting field duties during the sensitive voter list revision.
What alternative did the observers propose?
If CAPF protection is not available, the observers suggested being granted magisterial powers, allowing them to direct security forces during their duties.
What incident prompted the request for security?
The request for security followed a protest against special roll observer C. Murugan, indicating the charged political environment in the region.
What remarks did Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee make?
She called on women to stand ready to oppose any removal of names from the voter list, which has raised concerns about inciting public sentiment against electoral officials.
