When Will the Preparation for SIR in Bengal Begin?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As the Special Intensive Revision of the voters' list in West Bengal approaches, the implications for upcoming elections loom large. With political tensions rising, the stakes are higher than ever as officials gear up for this significant electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is set to begin in West Bengal.
- The last SIR was conducted in January 2002, marking a significant gap.
- Door-to-door surveys will be a key part of the SIR process.
- The SIR is crucial for upcoming Assembly elections.
- Political tensions surround the SIR, with varying party responses.
Kolkata, July 19 (NationPress) With the thorough preparations now finalized, officials indicated that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' list in West Bengal by the Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to commence shortly.
Sources from the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) suggested that the SIR could kick off as early as the last week of July or, at the latest, by the first week of August.
The last SIR of the voters' list in West Bengal occurred in January 2002, during the previous Left Front administration, marking a significant gap of 23 years before this upcoming revision.
The SIR holds considerable importance for West Bengal, especially with crucial Assembly elections on the horizon, likely set for May 2026.
A comprehensive door-to-door assessment of the voters' list will be an integral part of the SIR initiative.
The commission also maintains the authority to file an FIR against any individual found to possess a fraudulent voters' card.
The Trinamool Congress has expressed its dissent regarding the SIR, which was initiated in Bihar, where elections are scheduled later this year.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted that while the SIR was introduced in Bihar, its actual target appears to be West Bengal.
She further alleged that the true motive behind the SIR's initiation is to enforce the National Register of Citizens (NRC) within West Bengal.
Conversely, the BJP has warmly embraced the SIR.
The Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari, emphasized the necessity for a door-to-door review to pinpoint illegal Rohingya migrants who may have illicitly registered on the voters' list with assistance from the state administration and the ruling Trinamool Congress.
“In the special intensive review conducted by the ECI in Bihar, several illegal Rohingya infiltrators have been identified. Similarly, numerous illegal Rohingya individuals have entered West Bengal after unlawfully crossing the state’s borders with Nepal and Bangladesh. An urgent door-to-door review is essential to identify these Rohingya voters,” Adhikari stated.
However, Chief Minister Banerjee dismissed Adhikari’s claims, arguing that false propaganda regarding illegal Rohingya infiltration is being used to remove genuine voters from the list.
“Rohingyas originate from Myanmar. How could they be present in West Bengal? Yet, certain vested interests are spreading false narratives about the existence of thousands of illegal Rohingya migrants in the state. This campaign is aimed at disenfranchising legitimate voters. I challenge them to provide us with the addresses of these alleged Rohingya infiltrators,” the Chief Minister asserted.
Point of View
It is crucial to present the developments surrounding the Special Intensive Revision in West Bengal with impartiality. The SIR process is significant for ensuring electoral integrity, yet it has sparked political debates. The balancing act between maintaining accurate voter lists and addressing political dissent is essential for a fair electoral process.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process initiated by the Election Commission of India to update and revise the voters' list in preparation for upcoming elections.
Why is the SIR important for West Bengal?
The SIR is crucial for West Bengal as it prepares for significant Assembly elections scheduled for May 2026, ensuring an accurate and up-to-date voters' list.
When was the last SIR conducted in West Bengal?
The last SIR in West Bengal took place in January 2002, marking a 23-year gap before the current revision.
What are the political implications of the SIR?
The SIR has sparked political controversy, with parties like the Trinamool Congress questioning its motives, while the BJP supports it as a means to identify illegal voters.
How will the SIR be conducted?
The SIR will involve a door-to-door survey to assess the voters' list and identify any fraudulent registrations.
