Special Intensive Revision process questioned ahead of voting phase, data shows large-scale deletions amid limited tribunal relief
KOLKATA — A major controversy has emerged in West Bengal over the revision of voter lists ahead of the assembly elections, with large-scale deletions raising concerns about fairness and inclusion.
The issue centres on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, under which a significant number of names have reportedly been removed from electoral rolls. According to available figures, more than 12.8 lakh names were deleted in areas where voting in the second phase began on Wednesday.
At the same time, tribunal proceedings reviewing appeals have led to limited relief. Out of 1,474 applications examined, only 1,468 voters were reinstated in the list, while a small number of names remained excluded.
The developments come just before voting in multiple constituencies, including key seats such as Bhabanipur, represented by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Officials said the revision process was carried out to remove duplicate, deceased or shifted voters. “The exercise is aimed at maintaining accuracy in electoral rolls,” an official said.
However, reports indicating that a large number of affected voters belong to minority communities have added to the controversy. Some data suggests that a significant share of pending or disputed cases involves Muslim voters, along with sections of other communities.
A local activist said, “When such a large number of names are removed, it raises serious questions. People must not lose their right to vote due to procedural issues.”
In the first phase of the process, a smaller number of cases were reviewed, with fewer names restored. The second phase saw a wider review, but the overall gap between deletions and restorations remains large.
Legal experts note that voter list revisions are routine but must follow strict guidelines to avoid wrongful exclusion. “Every eligible citizen has the right to vote. Any large-scale deletion must be carefully examined,” one expert said.
The matter has taken on political importance as parties prepare for the elections. Opposition groups have raised concerns about possible disenfranchisement, while authorities maintain that the process is being conducted as per rules.
With polling underway in phases, the focus remains on whether all eligible voters will be able to exercise their franchise without difficulty.
