The Supreme Court of India ruled that voters cleared by tribunals up to 2 days before polling can cast their vote in West Bengal elections. However, those with pending appeals will not be allowed to vote, ensuring clarity in the electoral process.
The Supreme Court strongly criticised the West Bengal government after seven judicial officers were held hostage in Malda during voter list revision work. The Court ordered a CBI/NIA probe and said the incident was a serious challenge to the authority of the judiciary.
The Supreme Court ordered deployment of central armed forces to protect judicial officers after they were gheraoed and attacked in West Bengal during electoral roll revision work. The Court called the incident a serious attack on the rule of law and sought explanation from top state officials.
The Supreme Court said bulk Form 6 submissions during electoral roll revision are not new and objections can be filed as per the law. The Court also directed that all objections in the West Bengal electoral roll revision be decided by April 7.
The Supreme Court directed the West Bengal government and Election Commission to provide logistical support to judicial officers conducting the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, noting they have handled over 10.16 lakh objections and claims regarding voter deletions.
Today, On 9th March, The Supreme Court agreed to consider a plea challenging the deletion of electors from the electoral rolls during West Bengal’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR). A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi took note of submissions by senior advocate Maneka Guruswamy.
The Calcutta High Court has cancelled leave of judicial officers till March 9 to fast-track disposal of 45 lakh disputed SIR cases. A total of 173 judges will work under CCTV monitoring to meet the Election Commission’s voter list deadline.
The Supreme Court dismissed an application objecting to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally appearing before it in the SIR electoral rolls case. The CJI-led Bench said such an appearance is “not unheard of” and reflects faith in the Constitution.
The Election Commission of India told the Supreme Court that its officials faced threats, violence and zero police cooperation during the SIR process in West Bengal. The ECI cited statements like “Will break ECI’s legs” and alleged intimidation by the Mamata Banerjee government, warning of a hostile environment for election officials.
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.
