The Calcutta High Court has clamped down on leaves for all judicial officers in West Bengal, ramping up efforts for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. Responding to the Supreme Court’s February 24, 2026 mandate, this measure targets the disposal of nearly 45 lakh contentious cases, many flagged for data inconsistencies.
Affected personnel include senior civil judges, chief and additional chief judicial magistrates, and junior judicial magistrates. Medical emergencies aside, no vacations or leaves are allowed until further notice. Deputation officers are equally bound. Vacationers have until 25 February 2026 afternoon to return to duty stations.
Pre-sanctioned leaves are nullified, and transfer-bound officers must comply without leave entitlements. Early reporting directives have been issued to several. Training at the state judicial academy and external programs halted, sparing only probationers.
District committees will oversee progress, with the High Court warning of severe repercussions for non-compliance. This crackdown stems from the Supreme Court’s push to deploy judicial manpower fully for SIR-related disputes, ensuring timely resolution.
Background: The SIR initiative scrutinizes voter rolls for errors like duplicate entries and mismatches, vital for fair elections. With millions at stake, this no-leaves policy signals the judiciary’s commitment to electoral integrity. Observers anticipate faster case clearances, potentially reshaping West Bengal’s voter database.