What is the SIR controversy in West Bengal
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Elections, ECI & electoral reforms· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Supreme Court noted a 'trust deficit' between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the West Bengal government over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
Background
The SIR process is designed to clean electoral rolls by removing duplicate, migrated, and deceased voters while identifying 'illegal immigrants'. As of April 2026, the process has been conducted in 13 States and Union Territories.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyECI: The constitutional body responsible for conducting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
- FactThe SIR process has been conducted in 13 States and Union Territories as of April 2026.
- FactSIR objectives include removing duplicate, migrated, and deceased voters and identifying illegal immigrants.
For Mains
Q. Examine the role of the Election Commission of India in maintaining electoral integrity and the implications of 'trust deficits' between constitutional bodies and state governments.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Institutional friction: Conflict over the use of 'voter tribunals' and 'adjudication' in electoral roll cleaning
- Demographic sensitivity: Challenges in identifying 'illegal immigrants' vs. protecting the rights of genuine residents
- Administrative transparency: Need for standardized protocols to prevent political polarization during intensive revision
Keywords: Constitutional Body · Electoral Integrity · Trust Deficit · Special Intensive Revision · Adjudication
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