SC message to States: Won’t allow impediment to SIR, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court has stated that it will not allow any obstruction to the completion of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in any state.
• The court extended the deadline for scrutiny of documents in West Bengal by one week, beyond February 14, 2026.
• The court sought a personal affidavit from the West Bengal Director General of Police regarding the reluctance of local police to register FIRs in response to grievances from Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) accused the West Bengal government and TMC leadership of attempting to derail the SIR exercise.

Detailed Insights:

• The SIR exercise in West Bengal has faced allegations of obstruction and violence, with the ECI claiming that the ruling party is actively involved in causing obstruction and issuing threats to officials.
• The Supreme Court addressed concerns raised by Mamata Banerjee regarding the appointment of micro-observers by the ECI, clarifying that they would assist EROs/AEROs along with state officials.
• The court directed the West Bengal government to ensure that 8,505 Group B officers report for duty to assist with the SIR exercise, while emphasizing that the final decision rests with the EROs.
• The Solicitor General representing the Centre, urged the court to send a message that the Constitution of India applies to all states, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations in West Bengal.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Special Intensive Revision (SIR): A focused review process to update and rectify electoral rolls, ensuring accuracy and inclusivity.
• Booth Level Officer (BLO): A grassroot level election official responsible for voter registration and awareness at the polling booth level.
• Electoral Registration Officer (ERO): An officer appointed by the ECI responsible for preparing and maintaining the electoral roll for a constituency.