West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has moved the Supreme Court against the Election Commission, questioning the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in the state. She has alleged legal violations, public hardship, and serious humanitarian concerns during the SIR process.
The Supreme Court heard petitions challenging the Special Intensive Revision of Bihar’s electoral rolls, raising concerns about de novo preparation of voter lists and citizenship checks. Petitioners argued the process is arbitrary, excludes voters, and exceeds the Election Commission’s statutory powers.
During the Supreme Court hearing on women’s reservation in Punjab and Haryana Bar Council elections, CJI Surya Kant emphasized his impartiality. He stated he did not want anyone to perceive that he was favoring his home state.
Today, On 18th December, Supreme Court continues hearing the SIR validity case across states. The apex Court directs the Election Commission of India to decide the proposal within timeline, stating “Take A Decision On Or Before 31 December And Apprise The Court”.
The Election Commission told the Supreme Court that Aadhaar cannot be used as proof of citizenship and can only serve as proof of identity. The ECI clarified this position during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision process Phase 2.
The Supreme Court observed that reservation for persons with disability is essentially a policy issue and directed the Bar Council of India to consider the petitioner’s plea in view of constitutional equality principles and relevant legislative provisions for advocates with disabilities.
Today, On 17th October, the Supreme Court allowed petitioners to withdraw their plea against the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) decision to increase nomination fees for state Bar Council elections from Rs.9,000 to Rs. 1.25 lakh, ending the legal challenge.
Today, On 16th October, In the Bihar SIR Row, The Supreme Court emphasized that the Election Commission of India is fully aware of its duties and is legally bound to publish all changes in the electoral rolls without delay, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Today, On 9th October, Supreme Court declines a blanket order in Bihar voter roll revision, emphasizing learning from Bihar before nationwide SIR rollout and directing para-legal volunteers and legal service lawyers to help affected voters. “You have decided to carry out SIR across the country, this experience in Bihar will make you wiser. You will learn from this experience,” the Court added.
Today, On 9th October, In the Bihar SIR Row, Supreme Court orders activation of para-legal volunteers and legal service lawyers to assist 3.66 lakh voters deleted from Bihar electoral rolls. Authorities urged to help affected citizens file statutory appeals before the last date.
