The Election Commission of India has decided to issue show-cause notices to concerned Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) for failing to upload a large number of voters’ documents online under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process currently underway in West Bengal.
According to an official, nearly 1.15 lakh voter-related documents remain pending for upload even four days after the hearing process concluded. The Commission had clearly instructed that if any voter application is rejected, the specific reason must be mentioned transparently. However, allegations have emerged that this directive has been violated in several instances.
Officials also reported that the disposal process is progressing slowly, with sudden system failures being cited in certain areas. In view of these lapses and complaints, the Commission has moved to initiate disciplinary action by issuing show-cause notices.
TMC Alleges Violation by Special Roll Observer
Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress has alleged that Special Roll Observer C. Murugan violated a Supreme Court directive by issuing instructions to officers via WhatsApp.
Responding to the allegations, Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agrawal clarified that Mr Murugan did not issue any independent directions but merely explained the Commission’s existing instructions. He added that the matter would be discussed with the Special Roll Observer in light of the complaint.
No official response has yet been received from the Chief Electoral Officer’s office regarding the Trinamool Congress’ demand for Mr Murugan’s resignation.
The developments come amid heightened scrutiny of the voter roll revision process in West Bengal ahead of upcoming electoral exercises.
