Kolkata, 1 December (H.S.)

Leader of the Opposition Shuvendu Adhikari on Monday raised serious allegations over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the state’s electoral roll, claiming that an extraordinary 1 crore 25 lakh entries were recorded within just three days — November 26, 27 and 28 — and demanded an immediate audit of the process.

A delegation of BJP MLAs led by Adhikari reached the office of the State Chief Electoral Officer in the afternoon and submitted a written complaint. The complaint sought an audit of all SIR forms using modern technological tools. Speaking outside the office, Adhikari said the audit should be conducted by the team of central observers appointed by the Election Commission, as such a massive volume of entries indicates possible irregularities.

He alleged that in several districts, land-revenue officers were appointed as Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), despite clear Election Commission rules specifying that only sub-divisional officers or equivalent officials can hold the post. He further claimed that along with AEROs and some EROs, a member of I-PAC had also been involved in the process.

Adhikari accused officials of manipulating data entry to add the names of illegal infiltrators and deceased individuals to the voters’ list. According to the complaint, the alleged malpractice was carried out in a planned and coordinated manner, warranting a thorough investigation.

As the delegation arrived at the CEO’s office, members of the BLO Ekyo Manch protested outside with slogans. A large police presence at the spot ensured that the situation remained under control.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh