The Election Commission of India has taken decisive action to protect election officials in West Bengal following security concerns outside its Kolkata office. In a significant move dated November 28, the poll body issued strict directives to the state's top police official to ensure complete safety for personnel involved in the ongoing electoral revision process.
Security Directives for Election Personnel
In a formal letter addressed to West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, the Election Commission expressed serious concerns about the safety of Booth Level Officers and other field functionaries. The Commission explicitly instructed police authorities to implement robust security measures that would prevent any intimidation of election staff engaged in the Special Intensive Revision exercise.
The letter emphasized that all possible measures must be taken to guarantee the security of these officers and staff members. It specifically mandated that there should be no perceptible atmosphere of fear, threat, or undue influence on field functionaries, ensuring that no untoward incidents occur at any location across the state.
Appointment of Special Roll Observer
Invoking its constitutional powers under Article 324 (6) of the Indian Constitution, the Election Commission appointed DGP Rajeev Kumar as the Special Roll Observer for West Bengal. This appointment comes with significant responsibilities to oversee the electoral revision process and ensure it aligns with the Commission's directives.
As Special Roll Observer, Rajeev Kumar must ensure the Special Intensive Revision process strictly follows the Commission's orders dated October 27, 2025. His role includes verifying that no eligible person is excluded from enrollment while ensuring no ineligible elector is included in the voter lists.
The Commission has demanded regular inputs from the Special Roll Observer to maintain smooth continuity of the electoral revision process, which is scheduled for completion on December 4.
Enhanced Security Measures and Political Opposition
In response to the November 24 security breach at the central Kolkata building where protesters opposed the SIR exercise, the Election Commission has implemented additional protective measures. The Commission has ordered the relocation of the Chief Electoral Officer's office as a precautionary step.
Furthermore, the Kolkata Police Commissioner has been directed to provide complete protection for both the current premises and the newly designated office location to prevent any future disruptions.
Meanwhile, the Commission has instructed all District Election Officers to accelerate the establishment of new polling stations in slum areas, high-rise residential buildings, and gated colonies across West Bengal.
The security enhancements come amid political opposition to the SIR process. A delegation of 10 Trinamool Congress MPs met Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on November 28 to voice their objections to the ongoing electoral revision in West Bengal and other states. According to TMC MP Derek O'Brien, the party submitted a list claiming 40 people died due to the SIR process.
