The Election Commission of India has informed the Supreme Court of widespread intimidation and obstruction faced by officials conducting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal. The ECI claimed that threats, vandalism, and provocative statements by political leaders, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, have created an alarming environment, prompting unprecedented security measures for electoral officers.
In its counter-affidavit responding to a petition by Sanatani Sangsad, the ECI highlighted multiple incidents of obstruction during SIR, including a November 24, 2025, gherao at the Chief Electoral Officer’s office and a January 15, 2026, attack on a Block Development Officer’s office by 700 people. The affidavit notes that West Bengal is unique in facing such disruptions, while SIR processes continue smoothly elsewhere.
Allegedly provocative statements from the state CM and other politicians have intimidated officials to the extent that nine Micro Observers formally sought to withdraw from duty. The affidavit also cites threats from a sitting minister and an MLA, emphasizing that the cooperation of the state government is crucial to complete the revision of electoral rolls for over 58 lakh absent, deceased, or shifted voters.
A bench led by CJI Surya Kant will hear the matter on Monday, with the Apex Court closely monitoring the ECI’s concerns. The affidavit notes, “The Hon'ble Chief Minister of the State has persistently delivered a series of public addresses that are inherently provocative, thereby endangering an atmosphere of intimidation among the election officials tasked with the preparation and revision of the electoral roll.”
The ECI has also taken extraordinary measures, including assigning personal security officers to top officials and granting Y+ category protection to the CEO of West Bengal.
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