West Bengal Tragedy: Young Man's Stroke Sparks Controversy Over Voter List Stress
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Kolkata, March 2 (NationPress) A 28-year-old man suffered a fatal stroke in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, with his family asserting that his health deteriorated due to stress from being listed as "under adjudication" in the final electoral rolls, a result of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
On Monday, tension engulfed Dhalla village in the Alunda panchayat area of Suri following the news of his passing.
The deceased, identified as Sheikh Kamrul, was a 28-year-old contractual worker and the primary support for his family. He leaves behind his parents, wife, and two young children.
Family members reported that Kamrul became increasingly anxious after discovering that his name had been categorized as "under adjudication," while his wife's name was listed in the "approved" category.
His mother recounted, "My son had been under significant stress for a while due to the SIR process and frequently complained of headaches. His condition worsened on Sunday night. He was rushed to Suri Sadar Hospital, where doctors confirmed he had suffered a stroke. Although he was referred to Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, he tragically passed away before reaching there."
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) contended that the young man's death was linked to the anxiety triggered by the SIR exercise, criticizing both the BJP and the Election Commission for their roles in the situation.
Suri I Panchayat Samiti Executive Director Arif Hossain visited the grieving family and revealed that 230 residents of Dhalla village had been categorized as "under adjudication."
"They are all living in fear. The death of a young worker is a direct consequence of the Election Commission's actions, and the BJP cannot escape accountability," he stated, affirming his party's support for the bereaved family.
In contrast, the BJP dismissed these claims, arguing that TMC often blames health-related deaths on the SIR process.
A local BJP leader remarked, "While the loss of life is tragic, using it for political gain is even more regrettable."