Kolkata, 07 January (H.S.) : A political controversy erupted after Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee claimed that Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen had been summoned by the Election Commission of India in connection with the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. However, the Election Commission later clarified that no such hearing has been sought from Sen.

According to the Commission, the issue relates only to a minor spelling discrepancy in the voter list and does not require Amartya Sen to appear before any authority. Election officials stated that Booth Level Officers are empowered to correct small errors, including spelling mistakes in voters’ names, at the local administrative level.

An official explained that such technical discrepancies have no impact on a voter’s eligibility or rights. Instructions have been issued to resolve these matters administratively to avoid unnecessary confusion or public controversy. A family member of Amartya Sen also stated that no hearing notice had been received from the Election Commission.

Earlier, Abhishek Banerjee alleged that the economist had been served a notice for an SIR-related hearing, triggering sharp political reactions. The Election Commission, however, reiterated that minor errors in voter details do not warrant personal hearings.

Meanwhile, the poll body has directed officials to ensure that all notices related to discrepancies or logical inconsistencies in voter data are promptly downloaded and delivered to concerned voters within four to five days. Strict monitoring has been ordered, with no tolerance for delays.

During the first phase of the SIR process, data inconsistencies were identified among around 1.36 crore voters. After verification and corrections, this figure has now been reduced to approximately 59 lakh voters.

Sources said the Commission is scheduled to hold a meeting with Chief Electoral Officers of all states and Union Territories on January 8 in New Delhi. The meeting is expected to focus on the SIR process, election preparedness, and law and order issues.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh