SC Directs ECI: Transparency And Sensitivity Must Guide Voter List Updates |

Updated: February 05, 2026 00:59

Image Source: Bar and Bench

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to exercise caution while issuing notices to voters over name discrepancies during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The directive came in response to a plea filed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who alleged arbitrary targeting of voters.

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday issued a significant directive to the Election Commission of India (ECI) in connection with the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The apex court emphasized that notices regarding name discrepancies must be sent with utmost care to avoid unnecessary distress and potential disenfranchisement of voters.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had filed a petition challenging the SIR process, arguing that the exercise was arbitrary and disproportionately aimed at West Bengal. She personally appeared before the court to present her case, highlighting concerns that the revision was being used to delete names rather than ensure inclusivity in the electoral rolls.

Key Highlights:

The Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and VM Pancholi, instructed the ECI to avoid indiscriminate issuance of notices based on minor name mismatches.
The court observed that voters must not be harassed due to clerical errors or minor discrepancies in spelling and documentation.
Mamata Banerjee argued that the SIR process was discriminatory, questioning why West Bengal was singled out while similar exercises were not conducted in other states like Assam.
The apex court acknowledged the potential risk of large-scale voter disenfranchisement if notices were not handled carefully, especially ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections.
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on February 9, 2026, where the court is expected to review compliance and assess the broader implications of the SIR exercise.
The directive is seen as a crucial safeguard to protect voter rights and ensure transparency in the electoral process, reinforcing the principle that democratic participation must not be undermined by administrative lapses.

Sources: Bar & Bench, The Quint, Republic World

Stay Ahead – Explore Now! Breaking Barriers: EU Banks Get Green Light to Expand in India Under Landmark FTA