The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to publish the first supplementary voter list in West Bengal as part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, a key exercise ahead of the forthcoming Assembly elections.
The supplementary list will include names of applicants whose documents have been verified and accepted after due scrutiny. This publication forms an important stage in the revision process, aimed at ensuring that the electoral rolls remain accurate and up to date before polling begins.
"The adjudication process has been extensive, and a significant number of cases, over 27 lakh, have already been resolved after due verification. The supplementary list transparently incorporates these outcomes," an EC official said as quoted by PTI.
According to officials, the list will be released across all districts and shared with district election authorities. Copies will be made available at designated locations, including polling stations, enabling voters to check their inclusion status. Provisions have also been made for individuals to file claims and objections, both online and offline, in case of discrepancies.
"A large number of entries were kept under adjudication for further scrutiny. The supplementary list reflects the outcome of that verification process. The list will first be displayed at polling booths. It will subsequently be made available online," the official added, PTI reported.
The revision exercise is intended to incorporate eligible voters who may have been left out of the draft rolls, while also removing ineligible or duplicate entries. The ECI has emphasised that due process is being followed at each stage, including document verification and adjudication.
The publication of the supplementary roll is expected to provide clarity to a large number of applicants whose names were under review. Political stakeholders are closely tracking the process, as electoral roll accuracy remains a critical aspect of election preparedness.
Further updates, including subsequent revisions if required, will be carried out in accordance with the Commission’s schedule in the lead-up to the elections.
According to sources, a letter from the department of Home Secretary has been forwarded to District Magistrates in the state to ensure “strict surveillance” in sensitive areas. The administrative officials have also been directed to deploy adequate forces to maintain law and order.
“Maintain strict surveillance in sensitive areas, deploy adequate police forces to manage expected crowds at local administrative offices, and ensure law and order is maintained through close coordination with police commissioners and superintendents,” the order said.
