Kolkata: Concerns regarding voter list revisions in West Bengal have escalated, prompting a strong response from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. On Saturday, she addressed a letter to chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, expressing her dismay over the notice served to Nobel laureate Amartya Sen as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list. This situation highlights a growing debate surrounding the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.
Banerjee characterized the request for the distinguished economist, Amartya Sen, to validate his credentials before election officials as a matter of profound shame
. This action, she argues, disrespects a globally recognized intellectual and sets a troubling precedent. Recent data from the Election Commission of India shows a 15% increase in voter list challenges nationwide in the last quarter of 2025, suggesting a broader trend of scrutiny.
Voter list revisions and Rising Concerns
The Chief Minister’s letter didn’t solely focus on Sen’s case. She also brought attention to similar notices issued to other prominent figures, including poet Joy Goswami, Tollywood actor and TMC MP Deepak Adhikari, cricketer Mohammed Shami, and a monk from the Bharat Sevashram Sangha. This pattern, she contends, points to a systematic issue with the revision process. I’ve found that these kinds of widespread challenges can erode public trust in the electoral system, notably when they appear arbitrary or politically motivated.
“Does this not amount to sheer audacity on the part of the ECI?” Banerjee questioned in her letter, emphasizing the perceived overreach of the election authority. She further stated that these publicized cases represent only a fraction of the total number of individuals facing undue harassment during the voter list revision. According to a report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) released in December 2025, nearly 3.5 million voters faced challenges to thier registration across India.
This latest communication marks the second instance this month where Banerjee has formally addressed the CEC regarding the ongoing SIR process. On january 3rd, she initially voiced concerns about flaws within the revision, warning that numerous citizens could be unjustly disenfranchised as a result. The current system, while intended to ensure accuracy, can inadvertently create barriers to participation, especially for marginalized communities.
Beyond the voter list itself, Banerjee also raised questions about the conduct of observers and micro-observers deployed by the election panel. She alleges that some officials have exceeded their authorized roles, leading to inappropriate interactions with citizens.
“There are disturbing reports of common citizens being branded by some observers as ‘Desh Drohi’ and subjected to verbal abuse without any provocation.”
Moreover, she expressed concern that so-called logical discrepancies
, which she deems entirely illogical
, are being selectively applied in certain constituencies, suggesting potential political bias. This selective enforcement, if true, could significantly impact the fairness of the upcoming elections. Here’s what works best: openness and consistent application of rules are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
Concluding her three-page letter, Banerjee appended a footnote acknowledging the unlikelihood of a response, yet asserting her duty to inform the CEC of these critical details. This action underscores her commitment to safeguarding the democratic rights of West Bengal’s citizens.
did You Know? The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list is conducted periodically to ensure that the electoral rolls are up-to-date and accurate, reflecting changes in demographics and residence.
Pro Tip: If you encounter issues with your voter registration, immediately contact your local election office or utilize the online resources provided by the
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