Do Bengal SIR EROs Require Clearances from Special Observers Before Final Voters’ List Upload?
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Synopsis
In a crucial move, the electoral registration officers (EROs) in West Bengal's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) must now secure clearances from special roll observers (SROs) before finalizing the voters' list. This ensures only valid claims are processed, impacting the upcoming assembly elections significantly.
Key Takeaways
- The EROs must receive clearances from SROs before finalizing the voters' list.
- Only valid claims from hearings will be processed.
- Unmapped and logically discrepant voters require scrutiny of their claims.
- The deadline for hearings is set for February 7.
- Final publication of the voters' list is expected on February 14.
Kolkata, Jan 25 (NationPress) The electoral registration officers (EROs) involved in the current Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal must secure final approval from the special roll observers (SROs) prior to uploading the final electoral list of voters' names.
This requirement specifically applies to voters who have attended hearings regarding claims and objections related to the draft electoral list, identified as either “unmapped” or under the “logical discrepancy” category.
Voter names listed in the draft that do not fall into either of these categories will automatically be included in the final electoral roll.
Voters deemed “unmapped” are those who failed to establish a connection through self-mapping or progeny mapping with the 2002 voters’ list, the last time such an intensive revision was conducted in West Bengal.
On the contrary, “logical discrepancy” cases involve voters whose family tree data exhibited inconsistencies during the progeny-mapping process.
Sources from the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) office in West Bengal indicated that SROs will initially review the identification documents submitted by voters attending hearings. Only upon confirming the validity of these documents will they grant permission to the respective EROs to upload the names.
This process aims to ensure that only voters providing one of the 13 identity proof documents recognized by the Election Commission of India (ECI) are incorporated into the final voters’ list.
The Commission has also sanctioned two distinct lists of “unmapped” voters and “logical discrepancy” cases identified during the ongoing SIR in the state. Both approved lists have been delivered to the CEO's office and circulated among EROs.
Efforts to display hard copies at block offices, panchayat offices in rural areas, and ward offices in municipalities and municipal corporations commenced on Sunday morning and are expected to wrap up by tonight or, at the latest, by Monday morning.
The hearing sessions are set to conclude by February 7, with the final voters’ list anticipated for publication on February 14. Nonetheless, the Commission has suggested that these deadlines may be extended.
Following the publication of the final voters’ list, the ECI is expected to announce polling dates for the significant Assembly elections in the state.
Point of View
This procedural requirement emphasizes the importance of electoral integrity. Ensuring that only eligible voters are included in the electoral rolls reflects a commitment to democratic principles. The upcoming assembly elections hinge on the accuracy of this process, and the Election Commission's actions are pivotal in maintaining public trust in the electoral system.
NationPress
25/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of electoral registration officers in West Bengal's SIR?
Electoral registration officers (EROs) are responsible for revising and finalizing the electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in West Bengal.
What are 'unmapped' voters?
'Unmapped' voters are those who could not establish a connection with the 2002 voters' list through self or progeny mapping.
What happens if voters are categorized under 'logical discrepancy'?
Voters under 'logical discrepancy' face issues with data inconsistencies during the family tree mapping process and must provide documentation to resolve these.
When will the final voters' list be published?
The final voters' list is scheduled to be published on February 14, with potential extensions on the deadlines.
How will the verification process for voters work?
SROs will verify the authenticity of the identity documents submitted by voters before granting permission to EROs to upload names.
