Mamata Banerjee Demands Halt to Electoral Roll Revision Citing "Inhuman" Pressure on Officers

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has addressed a formal letter to Chief Election Commissioner of India (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, requesting an immediate suspension of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls currently underway in West Bengal.

The Chief Minister emphasized in her three-page communication that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are working "far beyond human limits" under extreme pressure. She expressed particular concern about the Election Commission's response, stating that "instead of offering support, extending timelines, or addressing systemic flaws, the office of CEO West Bengal has resorted to intimidation."

In her appeal, Banerjee urged the CEC to "intervene decisively to halt the ongoing exercise, stop coercive measures, provide proper training and support, and thoroughly reassess the present methodology and timelines."

The Chief Minister strongly criticized the implementation of the SIR process, describing it as "unplanned and chaotic" and even "dangerous." She highlighted that "the absence of even basic preparedness, adequate planning or clear communication has crippled the process from day one."

This letter follows a tragic incident in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district where a BLO was discovered deceased in her residence. Family members attributed her death to overwhelming work pressure and stress related to her SIR responsibilities.

While the CEC has not yet issued an official response, Election Commission of India (ECI) sources informed NDTV that BLOs have received "comprehensive training from the ECI training centre as well as the Chief Election Officer's (CEO) office." These sources further indicated that they are "carefully examining the Chief Minister's letter, and a detailed reply will be issued in due course."

The Commission has expressed willingness to deploy additional officers to support BLOs if needed, referencing a successful similar approach in Bihar that involved Jeevika Didis or volunteers.