In a stern stance, the Supreme Court on Monday prolonged the West Bengal Special Intensive Revision (SIR) timeline by seven days, shifting the final voter list release from February 14. This came during hearings on pleas by Mamata Banerjee and TMC leaders against the ECI’s process.
Chief Justice Suryakant-led bench ordered the state to deploy 8,505 Group B officials to aid EROs by evening next day. ECI can opt for them over its micro-observers, but their role is strictly supportive.
Frustration boiled over when ECI complained of no FIRs against those destroying objection forms. The court slapped a show-cause notice on the DGP, insisting on a personal affidavit.
Proceedings turned tense as lawyers spoke over each other. CJI rebuked them sharply: ‘Everyone’s talking at once, cutting each other off—it’s impossible to proceed.’ Order restored, Shyam Diwan took the floor for the CM.
Recalling prior discussions, CJI highlighted 70 lakh spelling errors in draft rolls and ECI’s reliance on micro-observers due to staff shortages. Diwan claimed 8,500 officers ready, but ECI denied receiving details.
The bench questioned the procrastination, urging immediate submission sans court intervention. Singhvi countered that ECI hadn’t requested Group B staff earlier; court’s idea prompted the effort.
Detailed scrutiny revealed the list’s composition: 65% Group B, rest A and C. Pant assured prior intimation to ECI. ECI pushed for SDM-level expertise for quasi-judicial duties.
CJI permitted swapping unfit EROs/AEORs, suggesting quick training for state officers. With new hands joining, extra time makes sense, the court reasoned.
Interim orders reinforced: Verify biodata swiftly, train briefly, assist EROs only. Cooperation urged to protect voter integrity as the case progresses.
This extension balances thoroughness with fairness, amid accusations of discrepancies and manpower issues plaguing Bengal’s electoral roll cleanup.