Is ECI Helping BJP by Extending SIR Deadline?
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Synopsis
The Trinamool Congress has accused the Election Commission of India of extending the SIR deadline to assist the BJP in removing voters from West Bengal's rolls. This controversial decision has ignited political tensions in the state, raising questions about the integrity of the electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- Trinamool Congress alleges bias in Election Commission actions.
- Deadline for voter enumeration has been extended to December 11.
- Concerns about the removal of genuine voters from electoral rolls.
- Political reactions indicate rising tensions within West Bengal.
- BJP defends the extension as a means to aid eligible voters.
Kolkata, Nov 30 (NationPress) The Trinamool Congress has raised allegations against the Election Commission of India, claiming that the extension of the deadline for voters to submit enumeration forms during the current Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process is designed to assist the BJP in achieving its purported objective of removing over one crore voters from West Bengal's electoral list.
This action has sparked significant backlash from various political factions within the state. In a statement to IANS, Trinamool Congress representative Arup Chakraborty stated that the commission's choice does not prioritize the welfare of everyday citizens.
"The Election Commission made this decision to aid the BJP in its goal of eliminating over 1 crore names from Bengal's voter registry. Reports indicate that approximately 35 lakh names are under scrutiny. Thus, this decision is a calculated move to assist the BJP in accumulating more votes," Chakraborty asserted.
He further remarked that had the intent been genuinely focused on the public’s interest, the decision would have been enacted much earlier, especially considering the fears that have emerged during the SIR process.
On Sunday, the Election Commission announced an extension of the deadline for electors to submit enumeration forms across nine states and three Union Territories, moving the deadline from December 4 to December 11.
The preliminary roll will now be released on December 16, shifting from the previously scheduled date of December 9. The final roll will be published on February 14, instead of February 7.
The CPI(M) also expressed that the poll panel must have acknowledged that such an extensive operation cannot be completed in a limited timeframe, which prompted the deadline extension.
"The Election Commission has finally come to terms with the fact that additional time is necessary to finalize this considerable undertaking. This realization should have occurred much earlier. Our demand remains clear: genuine voters’ names must be preserved without fail," stated CPI(M) leader Kaustav Chatterjee.
Conversely, the BJP defended the extension, asserting that the Election Commission's move aims to facilitate a smooth SIR process, ensuring no eligible voter is overlooked.
"The poll panel is committed to preventing voters from missing the chance to register in the SIR process, which is why the deadline has been prolonged. Their goal is to carry out the task in the most efficient manner possible," remarked senior BJP leader Rahul Sinha.
Point of View
The allegations made by the Trinamool Congress against the Election Commission of India highlight critical concerns regarding electoral integrity. While the commission defends its decision as a means to ensure inclusivity, the accusations of bias towards the BJP raise important questions about transparency and fairness in the electoral process. It is vital for democratic institutions to maintain public trust and act in the best interests of all citizens.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise is a process where electoral rolls are reviewed and updated to ensure that the list of eligible voters is accurate and up-to-date.
Why did Trinamool Congress accuse the Election Commission?
The Trinamool Congress accused the Election Commission of extending the deadline for electors to help the BJP remove more than one crore voters from West Bengal's electoral rolls.
What are the new deadlines set by the Election Commission?
The new deadline for submitting enumeration forms is now December 11, with the draft roll to be published on December 16 and the final roll on February 14.
How many names are reportedly considered doubtful?
Approximately 35 lakh names have been reported as being under scrutiny in the ongoing SIR exercise.
What is the BJP's stance on the extension of the deadline?
The BJP claims that the extension is intended to ensure a smooth SIR process and to make sure that no eligible voter is left out.
