Amid rising stakes for West Bengal’s 2026 elections, the Election Commission has rolled out comprehensive instructions to the state government, aligning strictly with a Supreme Court verdict on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Dated January 19, 2026, the order tackles transparency gaps and citizen hardships in voter list cleansing.
From the landmark Mostari Banu vs. Election Commission case (WP Civil 1089/2025), the apex court called for user-friendly mechanisms. Document handling, objections, and hearings are now designated for gram panchayats, block offices, taluka public areas, and urban wards.
Handling 1.25-1.36 crore logical discrepancy cases demands robust support: the CEO must staff venues adequately, while district collectors and SPs provide manpower and protection. Law enforcement chiefs—from DGP to local SPs—are on high alert to avert any chaos.
The EC’s letter carries a clear ultimatum: deviations will trigger rigorous penalties. The SC’s focus on easing ‘stress’ for 20% of Bengal’s 1.36 crore affected voters includes public name postings, representative filings, and Class 10 admit cards as proofs.
This initiative, pivotal for the upcoming Assembly polls, represents a thorough purge of electoral rolls, promoting accuracy and public confidence. By enforcing these measures, the EC not only complies with judicial intent but also fortifies India’s electoral framework against future challenges.