Will Bengal Experience Violence if Genuine Voter Names Are Removed After SIR?
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Synopsis
In a stark warning, Trinamool Congress leader Partha Bhowmick claims that West Bengal could face serious unrest if any genuine voter's name is removed from the electoral roll during the ECI's special intensive revision. This statement raises concerns over the political climate in the region, as tensions mount between the Trinamool Congress and BJP.
Key Takeaways
- Violence may erupt in Bengal if genuine voters' names are removed.
- Public urged to detain BJP leaders if deletions occur.
- ECI's SIR is under scrutiny by the Trinamool Congress.
- Chief Minister Banerjee warns against disenfranchisement.
- The last SIR occurred in 2002.
Kolkata, Oct 10 (NationPress) Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member and former West Bengal Minister, Partha Bhowmick, warned on Friday that the state could erupt in violence if even a single genuine voter’s name is removed from the voters' list following the Election Commission of India (ECI)-recommended special intensive revision (SIR).
He urged the public to pursue and detain Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders across the state if they witness the deletion of any legitimate voter's name.
"I'm advising everyone to chase and detain BJP leaders in various areas if a single genuine voter’s name is taken off the list. The SIR is not a personal asset that allows for the exclusion of valid voters. Should they attempt to erase genuine voters from the list, the state will be ignited under the guidance of Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee," Bhowmik declared while addressing local Trinamool Congress leaders and party workers in Bagda, located in North 24 Parganas district.
His remarks echoed similar warnings issued by Chief Minister Banerjee while speaking to reporters at the State Secretariat the previous Thursday.
"I will not condone the removal of names from any specific community in the state due to this unwarranted rush. I urge the ECI not to play with fire. West Bengal is still grappling with a crisis stemming from a natural disaster. Many homes have been washed away by recent floods. In such circumstances, how can people provide the necessary documentation for the SIR? Some individuals are on vacation due to the festive season. How will they gather the required documents?" the Chief Minister stated on Thursday.
From the outset, the Trinamool Congress has opposed the SIR, contending that it serves as a political strategy by the BJP and the Union government to impose the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in West Bengal.
Conversely, the BJP claims that the Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister Banerjee are resisting the SIR out of concern that names of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya voters will be eliminated from the voters' list.
The last SIR conducted in West Bengal took place in 2002.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the SIR in West Bengal. While the Trinamool Congress raises valid concerns about voter rights and representation, the BJP's claims also highlight fears regarding illegal voting. This situation necessitates a balanced dialogue that addresses the integrity of the electoral process while ensuring public safety and trust.
NationPress
12/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the special intensive revision (SIR)?
The special intensive revision (SIR) is a process recommended by the Election Commission of India to update the voters' list, ensuring that all eligible voters are accurately represented.
Why is the Trinamool Congress opposing the SIR?
The Trinamool Congress believes that the SIR is a political strategy by the BJP to enforce the National Register of Citizens (NRC), which they argue could disenfranchise legitimate voters.
What implications could arise from deleting voter names?
Removing genuine voters from the list could lead to significant public unrest, as indicated by the warnings from Trinamool leaders, potentially resulting in violence.
When was the last SIR conducted in West Bengal?
The last special intensive revision in West Bengal was conducted in 2002.
What is the BJP’s stance on the Trinamool Congress's objections?
The BJP argues that the opposition from the Trinamool Congress stems from fears of losing illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya voters.
