Thu Nov 20 11:11:35 UTC 2025: Summary:

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, expressing serious concerns about the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state. She alleges that the process is “unplanned and coercive,” putting both citizens and officials at risk. Banerjee cites a lack of preparedness, inadequate training, unclear documentation requirements, and the near-impossibility of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) meeting voters during working hours. The CM also highlights the death of an anganwadi worker, reportedly due to SIR-related pressure, and claims several others have died since the process began. She is urging immediate corrective action.

News Article:

West Bengal CM Alleges Chaotic, Dangerous Electoral Roll Revision; Demands Immediate Action

Kolkata, India – November 20, 2025 – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has penned a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, leveling serious accusations against the state’s ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Banerjee claims the process is being conducted in an “unplanned and coercive” manner, jeopardizing the safety of both citizens and government officials.

In her letter, Banerjee asserts that the SIR exercise has reached a “dangerous stage” due to a lack of basic preparedness, adequate planning, and clear communication. She specifically points to critical gaps in training, unclear documentation requirements, and the difficulty for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to connect with voters during their livelihood hours.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the tragic death of an anganwadi worker, reportedly by suicide due to immense pressure related to her role as a BLO in Mal, Jalpaiguri. Banerjee stated that “several others have lost their lives since this process began,” emphasizing the “unbearable human cost of SIR mismanagement.”

Banerjee is urging the Election Commission to take immediate corrective action, stating that the structurally unsound SIR exercise is putting undue stress on both officials and the public. The accusations raise serious questions about the integrity and safety of the electoral roll revision process in West Bengal.

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