Why Was the SIR Enumeration Form Distribution Deadline Missed Again in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The enumeration form distribution in West Bengal has hit yet another snag, missing its deadline with a significant number of forms still unallocated. As officials scramble to complete the process, the implications for voters are considerable. Discover what this means for the electoral landscape in the state moving forward.
Key Takeaways
- Missed deadlines for enumeration form distribution pose challenges for voter registration.
- 22 lakh forms are still pending distribution.
- Over 60 lakh voters are identified as non-traceable.
- The SIR process aims to update electoral rolls effectively.
- Voters need to provide 11 documents to retain their names if absent from the 2002 list.
Kolkata, Nov 15 (NationPress) The deadline for the distribution of enumeration forms, which marks the initial phase of the three-stage special intensive revision (SIR) in West Bengal, has once again been overlooked, with 22 lakh enumeration forms still pending distribution.
According to data from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal, nearly 7.45 crore enumeration forms have been handed out in the state as of 6 p.m. on Friday, accounting for approximately 97 percent of the total 7,66,37,529 electors listed in West Bengal as per the electoral roll dated October 27.
The original deadline for the completion of enumeration form distribution was set for November 11; however, at that juncture, about 15 percent of the electorate had yet to receive their forms.
Subsequently, November 14 was designated as the new deadline for finalizing the distribution of enumeration forms. The successful completion of this distribution will signify the conclusion of the first phase of the three-stage SIR process in West Bengal.
Sources from the CEO's office have indicated that approximately 60 lakh voters in the state have been classified as non-traceable, indicating that the booth-level officers (BLOs) were unable to deliver the enumeration forms directly to them.
For these cases, notices have been affixed to the main entrances of such voters' homes, instructing them to contact the respective BLOs by a certain date. Those who fail to reach out to the BLOs by the given deadlines have been marked as non-traceable.
The initial phase of the three-stage SIR in West Bengal commenced on November 4 and is anticipated to conclude by March of the following year. The last time this process took place in West Bengal was in 2002.
Voters whose names or those of their parents do not appear in the 2002 voter list will be required to present any of the 11 documents specified by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure their names remain on the electoral rolls.
Point of View
The oversight in the enumeration form distribution process in West Bengal raises concerns about electoral preparedness. As the state approaches crucial deadlines for voter registration, it is imperative for the authorities to streamline operations to ensure all eligible voters are accounted for. The implications of not addressing these issues could affect the integrity of the electoral process, and hence the democratic fabric of the nation.
NationPress
15/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SIR process in West Bengal?
The SIR, or special intensive revision, is a three-stage process aimed at updating the electoral rolls in West Bengal to ensure accurate representation of voters.
Why were the deadlines for distribution missed?
The deadlines were missed due to logistical challenges and a significant number of voters being classified as non-traceable.
What is the significance of the enumeration forms?
Enumeration forms are essential for verifying voter eligibility and ensuring that all eligible voters are registered in the electoral rolls.
How many forms have been distributed so far?
As of now, approximately 7.45 crore enumeration forms have been distributed in West Bengal.
What happens to non-traceable voters?
Non-traceable voters receive notices asking them to contact booth-level officers (BLOs) to ensure their registration.
