Why is the Calcutta HC Requesting an Affidavit from the ECI?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court's recent request for an affidavit from the ECI on the special intensive revision in West Bengal raises crucial questions about electoral integrity and safety measures for officials involved in the process. As the state gears up for assembly elections, understanding these developments becomes imperative.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court demands affidavit from ECI.
- SIR exercise crucial for electoral integrity.
- Safety of BLOs remains a concern.
- First phase of SIR started on November 4.
- Completion expected by March.
Kolkata, Nov 6 (NationPress) A division bench of the Calcutta High Court has requested an affidavit from the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the ongoing special intensive revision being carried out in West Bengal.
The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Sujay Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen, has set a deadline for the commission to submit the affidavit by November 18.
On October 31, a petition was lodged at the High Court, aiming for a court-monitored SIR exercise in West Bengal. The petitioner requested an extension of the time frame for the revision process.
Additionally, the petitioner sought the High Court's guidance for the ECI to provide a thorough explanation regarding the necessity of the SIR exercise.
During the hearing on Friday, the petitioner’s lawyer also requested specific measures to ensure the safety of booth-level officers (BLOs), who frequently face threats while performing their duties during the SIR exercise.
However, the division bench declined to issue any separate directives concerning the protection of the BLOs. The bench noted that the state government is equipped to ensure the safety of its employees without the need for court intervention.
The initial phase of the three-stage SIR in West Bengal commenced on November 4, wherein the BLOs are visiting voters' homes with enumeration forms.
The entire SIR exercise is projected to conclude by March, following which West Bengal will prepare for the pivotal assembly elections. The last SIR in the state took place in 2002.
Point of View
The developments in West Bengal showcase a critical intersection of judicial oversight and electoral processes. The Calcutta High Court's intervention signifies a broader commitment to ensuring transparency and safety for election officials, reflecting the nation's dedication to upholding democratic principles.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SIR exercise?
The SIR exercise, or special intensive revision, is a process conducted by the Election Commission to update and verify the electoral rolls.
Why did the Calcutta High Court seek an affidavit from the ECI?
The court requested the affidavit to understand the rationale behind the ongoing SIR exercise and to ensure that it is conducted transparently.
What are the safety concerns for booth-level officers?
Booth-level officers often face threats while performing their duties during the SIR exercise, raising concerns about their safety.
When is the SIR exercise expected to be completed?
The entire SIR exercise is expected to be completed by March, ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal.
When was the last SIR conducted in West Bengal?
The last SIR in West Bengal was conducted in 2002.
