Wed Feb 25 16:18:54 UTC 2026: ### Headline: West Bengal CM Alleges Mass Voter Deletion Scheme Ahead of Electoral Roll Publication

The Story:

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced serious concerns regarding the potential deletion of approximately 1.2 crore voters from the state’s electoral rolls following a Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Speaking at an event in her constituency, Bhabanipur, on February 25, 2026, Banerjee claimed that the names were being excluded under the guise of “logical discrepancy.” She highlighted a two-phased exclusion process, initially affecting 58 lakh names, followed by a further exclusion which she estimates will affect 80 lakh people.

Banerjee emphasized her personal involvement in challenging the SIR exercise, stating that she fought against it in the Supreme Court, where a petition remains pending since her appearance on February 4, 2026. She affirmed her commitment to protecting the democratic rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious or political affiliations. The final electoral rolls are expected to be published on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Key Points:

  • Mamata Banerjee alleges that approximately 1.2 crore voters may be deleted from West Bengal’s electoral rolls.
  • The exclusion is occurring as part of a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
  • 58 lakh names were initially excluded, with a further exclusion of approximately 80 lakh expected.
  • Banerjee personally challenged the SIR exercise in the Supreme Court on February 4, 2026.
  • The final electoral rolls are scheduled for publication on February 28, 2026.

Critical Analysis:

The timing of this announcement, just days before the publication of the final electoral rolls, suggests a strategic move by Banerjee to preemptively address any potential electoral setbacks. Her emphasis on fighting the SIR exercise in the Supreme Court and her appeal to a diverse community, including the Jain community, indicates an attempt to broaden her base of support and frame the issue as a threat to democracy itself.

Key Takeaways:

  • The alleged mass voter deletion raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process in West Bengal.
  • Banerjee is positioning herself as a defender of democratic rights and challenging the legitimacy of the electoral roll revision.
  • The timing of the announcement suggests a calculated political strategy to mobilize public opinion and potentially challenge the final electoral rolls.
  • The Supreme Court’s pending decision on the SIR exercise will be crucial in determining the legality and fairness of the voter list revision.

Impact Analysis:

The allegations of mass voter deletion could have significant implications for the upcoming elections in West Bengal. If proven true, it could undermine the legitimacy of the electoral process and lead to widespread protests and legal challenges. The controversy could also further polarize the political landscape and potentially impact the outcome of future elections. The Supreme Court’s decision will play a vital role in shaping the future of electoral politics in the state.

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