The Election Commission of India took a decisive step on Friday by designating former IPS officer NK Mishra as Special Observer for West Bengal’s voter roll overhaul, focusing on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
Issued by Under Secretary ML Meena, the order empowers Mishra to enforce ECI directives meticulously. He will oversee the entire revision exercise, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the Commission’s timelines and standards.
Mishra’s duties include on-ground assessments through regular state visits. He will evaluate SIR implementation, polling station setups, and preparations for the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections, submitting actionable insights to the ECI.
All his engagements will be synchronized with CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal, who is responsible for providing comprehensive support. This includes access to necessary documents, security, and other facilities.
Notably, the ECI has barred Mishra from directly praising or issuing certificates to election staff. Instead, he must forward any such recommendations formally to the Commission with supporting rationale.
With the claims and objections hearing window closing tomorrow, the process is entering its final phase. Document verification runs through February 21, paving the way for the final electoral roll release on February 28.
This revision, initiated last December, aims to cleanse the voter lists of discrepancies, a crucial foundation for credible polls. Mishra’s appointment signals the ECI’s zero-tolerance stance on irregularities, especially in a politically charged state like West Bengal.
Election watchers anticipate that his vigilance will enhance public trust in the system. As deadlines approach, the focus sharpens on delivering a flawless voter database for the battles ahead.