SIR in West Bengal: How exclusion of nine million voters could shape state politics
Political turmoil in West Bengal, India, has erupted over a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise that removed nine million voters from the electoral rolls. Muhammad Daud Ali, a former Indian army technician, is among those whose names were struck off despite valid documents. The exercise, aimed at weeding out duplicate or outdated entries and adding genuine voters, has been controversial since it began in Bihar last year. Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, alleges that the revision is being used to disenfranchise Muslims to benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Election Commission maintains that the exercise aims for a "pure electoral roll" and denies any political bias. The fate of 2.7 million voters remains undecided as legal challenges continue. With elections scheduled for April 23rd and 29th, many are concerned about the impact on democracy.
20 APR 2026
— The Hindu
The Election Commission of India has committed to a free and transparent election in West Bengal, despite controversial electoral roll revisions.
22 APR 2026
— The Guardian
Millions in India stripped of vote before critical state election, as government seeks to ‘purify’ electoral roll | India
— The Hindu
The Election Commission of India reinstated 139 voters previously excluded due to judicial tribunal rulings, allowing them to participate in the first phase of West Bengal Assembly polls.
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