Tensions are high in West Bengal’s voter list overhaul, prompting Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal to enforce swift policing. All districts must lodge FIRs on the spot for any anarchy during the 2026 SIR at official spots, from public property vandalism to official harassment.
The order echoes a Supreme Court mandate from January 19, 2026, born out of hearings on SIR complaints. Trinamool Congress had flagged process lapses affecting millions, with 1.36 crore discrepancy notices causing uproar. Rulings stressed fair play: public flagging of issues, document ease, and hearing rights.
Agarwal details the drill—DEOs file complaints instantly, forward copies to SPs and CEO, suspend violent sites till cleared, and face consequences for delays. It’s a preemptive strike ahead of April-May 2026 elections, aiming for a clean slate by weeding out list flaws.
Election body champions it as duty-bound sanitation, dismissing partisan jabs. By prioritizing security, Bengal’s poll prep sets a precedent for orderly revision, fortifying the democratic bedrock against potential flashpoints.