Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Calls the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls a “Huge Scam” – What It Means for Voters in West Bengal
In a recent rally held in Bankura district, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed strong concerns about the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, calling it a “huge scam” that employs artificial intelligence (AI). This revision process is aimed at updating and verifying the electoral rolls, but Banerjee claims it is being misused to unjustly remove legitimate voters.
On November 20, 2023, the Chief Minister submitted a formal letter to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), outlining her grave concerns.
Sharing herewith my latest letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, articulating my serious concerns in respect of the ongoing SIR…. pic.twitter.com/7cbOOQl7Ax
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 21, 2025
Mamata Banerjee alleges that the SIR is a deceptive scheme orchestrated to delete honest voters’ names from the electoral rolls. She argues that this process is causing considerable distress to the residents of West Bengal, asserting that around 60 individuals have reportedly died due to this situation.
- Harassment of Voters: Mamata Banerjee highlighted that many elderly citizens are being summoned for document verification related to the SIR, which she views as a form of harassment. By this comparison, it is as if people are being subjected to a rigorous exam just to prove they belong in the electoral process.
- Threat of Protest: She stated that if even a single legitimate voter’s name is removed from the rolls, her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), would mobilize to gherao (encircle) the Election Commission’s office in Delhi, indicating a strong commitment to stand against what they perceive as injustice.
- Political Concerns: Mamata Banerjee criticized the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that while they promise to create a prosperous “sonar Bangla” (golden Bengal) during elections, the reality is that Bengali speakers face violence in BJP-ruled states. This statement reflects her concerns about the political climate and suggests that the ruling party’s promises may not align with actual conditions on the ground.
- Political Action: In response to the SIR’s implications, the TMC is preparing to meet with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to address their concerns. This meeting is scheduled for December 31, 2025, and will involve key TMC leaders, including Abhishek Banerjee, highlighting the party’s organized approach to tackle this issue.
- Political Dynamics: The ongoing tensions illustrate a significant political battle in West Bengal, as the TMC faces off against the BJP amidst accusations and counter-accusations regarding voter manipulation and political integrity.
By simplifying the complex situation around the Special Intensive Revision and the reactions from key political figures, we see a clear narrative of concern for voter rights and electoral fairness. This situation underscores the importance of transparency and trust in electoral processes, as well as the potential political ramifications of perceived injustices. Mamata Banerjee’s passionate defense of voters’ rights reflects both a political strategy and a genuine commitment to her constituents’ welfare.
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