West Bengal Electoral Roll Final Publication Rescheduled to February 28
In a significant development concerning West Bengal's electoral preparations, the Election Commission of India has officially extended the timeline for the Special Intensive Revision of the state's voter list. The final electoral roll, which was initially scheduled for publication on February 14, will now be released on February 28, marking a two-week extension to the entire process.
Supreme Court Directive Precedes Commission Decision
The Commission's announcement comes directly on the heels of a Supreme Court order issued just one day prior. The apex court had granted a one-week extension to the SIR schedule while delivering a firm message that the electoral revision process must proceed without obstruction. "Whatever orders or clarification required, we will issue. But we will not allow any impediment to the SIR process. This must be understood by all states," Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized during the court proceedings.
In formal communication to West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer, Manoj Agarwal, EC Secretary Pawan Diwan stated, "In compliance of the Hon'ble Supreme Court's direction, the Commission has decided to revise the programme of ongoing SIR in the State of West Bengal." This official correspondence underscores the legal basis for the schedule adjustment.
Revised Timeline for Electoral Roll Revision
The Election Commission has established a detailed, phased timeline to complete the Special Intensive Revision:
- Hearings for Notified Electors: Will continue until February 14
- Document Scrutiny and Disposal: To be finalized by February 21
- Polling Station Rationalization: Scheduled for completion by February 25
- Health Parameter Verification: Set to conclude on February 27
- Final Electoral Roll Publication: Officially scheduled for February 28
Background and Administrative Coordination
This extension follows a formal request from the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer, who had previously written to the Election Commission seeking additional time for the SIR process. The state CEO had specifically proposed extending the hearing date to February 14 and suggested publishing the final list on February 21. He had directed district electoral officers to submit comprehensive data regarding pending hearings across various districts.
In a related development, the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer met with the full bench of the Election Commission in Delhi on Tuesday to discuss comprehensive preparations for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. According to informed sources, the Election Commission is expected to announce the detailed election schedule for Bengal shortly after the publication of the final electoral roll on February 28.
The extended timeline ensures that the meticulous process of voter list verification, which includes hearings, document scrutiny, and polling station rationalization, receives adequate time for completion while adhering to judicial directives. This careful revision process is crucial for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the electoral roll ahead of the significant state assembly elections.
