Why is Bengal SIR Being Audited? LoP Suvendu Adhikari Raises Concerns Over 1.25 Crore Enumeration Entries
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Synopsis
In a bold move, Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, has demanded an audit of 1.25 crore enumeration entries from the Election Commission. This call stems from allegations of irregularities and potential scams linked to the ongoing electoral revision process. What implications could this have for the state's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Suvendu Adhikari has called for an audit of enumeration entries.
- Approximately 1.25 crore entries were recorded over three days.
- Allegations include involvement from I-PAC and electoral officers.
- Concerns about electoral integrity have been raised.
- This situation could impact the upcoming elections in West Bengal.
Kolkata, December 1 (NationPress) - The Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, has urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to initiate an audit of the nearly 1.25 crore entries recorded in the enumeration forms during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process on three specific days: November 26, November 27, and November 28.
A delegation from the BJP, headed by Adhikari, visited the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal to file a complaint, which included a request for an audit of the enumeration forms.
“We have formally requested that the audit of the entries from those three days be conducted by the team of central observers assigned by the ECI for West Bengal to oversee the SIR process. This audit should leverage advanced technology. The volume of entries during those days was unprecedented at 1.25 crore. We believe this indicates a scam that warrants investigation by the commission,” Adhikari stated to the media after the submission.
He further alleged that certain electoral registration officers (EROs), assistant electoral registration officers (AEROs), and members of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), founded by vote strategist Prashant Kishor, were implicated in this issue.
I-PAC has been advising the Trinamool Congress on their electoral strategies since the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections.
Adhikari accused that in multiple instances, land revenue officers were appointed as EROs in various districts, contrary to ECI guidelines which stipulate that only officers of sub-divisional officer rank or equivalent may serve as EROs.
“There are allegations that I-PAC has been involved in data entry tasks, leading to the inclusion of names of numerous illegal Bangladeshi immigrants and deceased individuals on the voters’ list,” Adhikari claimed.
Following the BJP delegation's arrival at the CEO’s office in central Kolkata, members of the BLO Oikya Mancha (BLO Unity Forum), a group affiliated with the Trinamool Congress, protested outside the office.
A significant police presence was deployed to manage the situation and prevent further escalation.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the gravity of Suvendu Adhikari's allegations. The call for an audit reflects a broader concern about electoral integrity in West Bengal. With the ECI's involvement, this could set a precedent for future electoral processes. NationPress will continue to monitor this situation closely, ensuring that our coverage remains fair and informative.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Suvendu Adhikari to demand an audit?
Suvendu Adhikari raised concerns about potential irregularities and a scam related to the 1.25 crore entries in enumeration forms during the Special Intensive Revision process.
Who is involved in the allegations?
Adhikari alleged involvement from electoral officers and members of I-PAC, the Indian Political Action Committee founded by Prashant Kishor.
What are the dates of the enumeration entries in question?
The entries in question were made on November 26, 27, and 28.
How does this impact the upcoming elections?
These allegations could influence voter confidence and the political landscape as West Bengal approaches the next election cycle.
What steps will the Election Commission take next?
The Election Commission is expected to investigate the claims and conduct an audit of the enumeration entries as demanded by the Leader of Opposition.
