Did ECI Appoint 12 More Roll Observers in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has appointed 12 new special electoral roll observers in West Bengal as part of the ongoing special intensive revision. This move elevates the total number of observers to 33, raising concerns and discussions regarding the electoral process in the state.
Key Takeaways
- 12 new special electoral roll observers appointed.
- Total observers in West Bengal now stands at 33.
- Concerns raised over the integrity of the voter list process.
- Micro-observers play a critical role in monitoring hearings.
- Chief Minister has voiced opposition to the SIR process.
Kolkata, Jan 20 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently designated an additional 12 special electoral roll observers in West Bengal to oversee the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) process within the region.
Among the newly appointed observers are Harsh Mangla, Nand Kumarum, P Bala Kiran, Prasanna R, Raghav Langer, Ravi Shankar, Shashank Mishra, V. Kiran Gopal, S. Venkateshpathy, Nishitha Upadhyay, Devesh Daval, and Gaya Prasad.
The notifications regarding these appointments have been disseminated by IANS.
With this new batch of observers, the total count rises to 33, positioning West Bengal with the highest number of special roll observers compared to other states and Union Territories where the parallel SIR initiative is underway.
Throughout the SIR process, there has been a consistent rise in the number of observers due to the sensitive nature of the voter list process in the state.
This team of special electoral roll observers is spearheaded by Subrata Gupta, a former Indian Administrative Service officer from the West Bengal cadre.
These 33 observers will supplement the already appointed 6,500 micro-observers by the ECI, who are monitoring the ongoing hearings on claims and objections concerning the draft voters' list in West Bengal.
The initiative to utilize micro-observers has been exclusive to West Bengal amidst the other states and Union Territories participating in the parallel SIR effort.
In response, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed her concerns to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, opposing the appointment of micro-observers and alleging that the SIR process is primarily aimed at removing names of existing voters rather than correcting discrepancies or including new voters.
Insider sources from the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer indicate that the ECI's decision to appoint these additional 12 observers stems from findings that the roles of certain district magistrates, district electoral officers (DEOs), electoral registration officers (EROs), and assistant electoral registration officers (AEROs) were not aligning with the ECI's established guidelines for the voter revision process.
Point of View
The appointment of additional electoral roll observers in West Bengal highlights the critical nature of ensuring a fair electoral process. The ECI's actions reflect an ongoing commitment to uphold the democratic principles that govern our nation, ensuring every voice is heard and counted.
NationPress
21/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were additional observers appointed in West Bengal?
The Election Commission of India appointed additional observers to enhance oversight during the sensitive voter list revision process, responding to concerns regarding compliance with established guidelines.
How many special electoral roll observers are now in West Bengal?
With the latest additions, the total number of special electoral roll observers in West Bengal has reached 33, the highest among states and Union Territories participating in the SIR initiative.
What is the role of micro-observers?
Micro-observers are tasked with reviewing hearing sessions on claims and objections related to the draft voters' list, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the electoral process.
What concerns did Mamata Banerjee raise?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed worries that the SIR process is aimed at removing existing voters' names rather than correcting errors or including new voters.
Who is leading the team of observers?
The team of special electoral roll observers in West Bengal is led by Subrata Gupta, a retired officer from the Indian Administrative Service.
