Are Large-scale Voter Deletion Claims Exaggerated? ECI Tells SC
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Synopsis
In a recent affidavit to the Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has strongly dismissed allegations of mass voter deletions in West Bengal. As the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process comes under scrutiny, the ECI defends its constitutional mandate and emphasizes the need for accurate electoral rolls.
Key Takeaways
- The ECI has firmly denied allegations of mass voter deletions in West Bengal.
- The Special Intensive Revision is a constitutionally mandated process.
- 99.77% of voters have received pre-filled forms, with 70.14% returned.
- Booth Level Officers are conducting thorough door-to-door verifications.
- No voter can be removed without due process and established safeguards.
New Delhi, Dec 1 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court on Monday, categorically denying claims of widespread voter deletions in West Bengal during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
This affidavit was presented ahead of the court's hearing regarding petitions that challenge the SIR process in the state on December 9.
The ECI characterized the allegations of mass voter deletion as "grossly exaggerated" and suggested that they were being promoted for "vested political interests".
It emphasized that the SIR is a constitutionally mandated and long-standing initiative aimed at preserving the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls, and is not an extraordinary or arbitrary action.
Reinforcing its constitutional duty, the Commission stated that developing a clean and updated voter list is crucial to its responsibilities under Article 324 of the Constitution and Sections 15, 21, and 23 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
The affidavit also cited the Supreme Court's pivotal ruling in the T.N. Seshan case (1995), which highlighted the Commission’s extensive powers and obligation to maintain precise electoral rolls.
The ECI defended its orders from June 24 and October 27 that initiated the nationwide SIR, asserting they are both valid and necessary.
It pointed out that rapid urbanization and rising internal migration over the past two decades have resulted in frequent changes in voter addresses, which increases the risk of duplication or outdated entries. These issues, along with repeated complaints from political parties in multiple states, led to the decision to implement a pan-India SIR.
Regarding West Bengal, the Commission reported that 99.77% of existing voters have received pre-filled enumeration forms, with 70.14% of those forms already returned. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are conducting door-to-door verification.
It stated that if a residence is found locked, BLOs must issue three mandatory notices prior to any deletion being considered. Special instructions have been issued to ensure that elderly, disabled, and vulnerable voters face no inconvenience.
The ECI underscored that no voter can be removed from the rolls without adhering to due process, and noted that the SIR guidelines include multiple safeguards to ensure transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi will hear the petitions challenging the West Bengal SIR on December 9.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that the Election Commission of India's role is to uphold democratic integrity. While allegations of voter deletions arise, the ECI emphasizes its constitutional responsibilities. The ongoing Special Intensive Revision process is crucial to ensuring accurate electoral rolls, which ultimately supports our democratic framework. A balanced approach is necessary to address voters’ concerns while also maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a constitutional exercise aimed at ensuring the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls by updating voter lists.
Why is the ECI rejecting claims of mass voter deletions?
The ECI claims these allegations are grossly exaggerated and politically motivated, emphasizing its constitutional duty to maintain accurate electoral rolls.
How does the SIR process work?
The SIR involves pre-filled enumeration forms being sent to existing voters, followed by door-to-door verification conducted by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
What safeguards does the SIR process include?
The SIR guidelines include safeguards to ensure transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness in the voter list revision process.
What are the implications of the ECI's affidavit?
The affidavit aims to address concerns about electoral integrity and to reassure voters that the SIR process is necessary for maintaining accurate electoral rolls.
