Will DMs Oversee Micro-Observers for Voter List Hearings in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has made a significant decision regarding the upcoming voter list hearings in West Bengal. Find out how the roles of district magistrates and micro-observers are defined in this crucial electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- The Election Commission has clarified the roles of DMs and micro-observers.
- Micro-observers will not be controlled by DMs or DEOs.
- Hearings will begin on December 27.
- 3,000 micro-observers will ensure the integrity of the process.
- Logistical support will still be provided by DMs and DEOs.
Kolkata, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has confirmed that district magistrates (DMs), who also act as district electoral officers (DEOs), will not have authority over the micro-observers designated to oversee the hearing sessions regarding claims and objections to the draft voters’ list in West Bengal, which are set to commence next week.
This stipulation implies that the micro-observers will not answer to the DMs or DEOs, nor will they be obligated to follow any directives issued by these officials.
According to the Commission's directives, the micro-observers will solely report to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal, along with the special roll observers appointed by the ECI to monitor the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in the state, as per sources from the CEO’s office.
The micro-observers will operate under the direct oversight of the special roll observers, who are either current or former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers.
Nonetheless, the CEO's office has clarified that DMs and DEOs are tasked with providing logistical assistance to the micro-observers and ensuring their safety during their duties in the respective districts.
The hearing sessions in the second phase of the three-stage SIR exercise are expected to begin on December 27. The draft voters' list was released on December 16.
Approximately 3,000 micro-observers will be appointed for the hearing sessions, with the objective of having one micro-observer at each hearing table.
As per the Commission's resolution, employees from the Central government or from Central public sector undertakings or public sector banks at Group-B level or higher will be designated as micro-observers.
The hearings on claims and objections will be conducted exclusively at the offices of the DMs or DEOs. The SIR initiative in West Bengal commenced on November 4 and will conclude with the release of the final voters’ list on February 14 of the coming year. Following this, the ECI will announce the dates for polling and counting for the Assembly elections.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that the Election Commission's decision to separate the roles of district magistrates from micro-observers reinforces the integrity and independence of the electoral process in India. This move aims to enhance transparency and accountability during the voter list hearings, ultimately strengthening democracy.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of micro-observers in the voter list hearings?
Micro-observers are appointed to supervise the hearing sessions on claims and objections to the draft voters' list, ensuring the process is fair and transparent.
Who will the micro-observers report to?
Micro-observers will report only to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal and the special roll observers appointed by the Election Commission.
When will the hearing sessions begin?
The hearing sessions for the claims and objections will commence on December 27.
What is the purpose of the Special Intensive Revision exercise?
The Special Intensive Revision exercise aims to update the draft voters' list and ensure that it accurately reflects eligible voters in West Bengal.
How many micro-observers are being appointed?
Approximately 3,000 micro-observers will be appointed for the hearing sessions.
