BJP Requests Central Government Employees as Micro-Observers for SIR in West Bengal

The BJP has urged the Election Commission to deploy Central government employees as micro-observers during the SIR exercise in West Bengal, aiming to ensure fair and accurate electoral rolls. Concerns over undue influence have prompted calls for CCTV coverage of the scrutiny phase.

The BJP has called on the Election Commission to use Central government staff as micro-observers in West Bengal's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. This request aims to ensure that the final voter lists are accurate and free from manipulation. Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, emphasised the need for strict supervision during this process.

Adhikari has also insisted that CCTV cameras cover the entire scrutiny and hearing phases of the SIR exercise. He stressed that preserving this footage until the process concludes is crucial for transparency. The second phase of SIR is particularly important as it will determine the fairness and accuracy of the final electoral roll.

Central Government Employees as Micro-Observers

Adhikari highlighted reports suggesting undue influence is being exerted to interfere with the SIR process. This interference threatens the neutrality and credibility of the exercise. To counteract this, he urged that micro-observers, who should be Central government employees, oversee the entire phase.

In his letter to the poll panel, Adhikari reiterated that deploying Central government employees as micro-observers would help maintain neutrality. He believes their involvement is essential to prevent any manipulation and ensure a transparent process.

Ensuring Transparency Through CCTV Coverage

The demand for comprehensive CCTV coverage during the scrutiny phase and hearings is part of Adhikari's strategy to safeguard transparency. He stated, "The entire scrutiny phase and hearing must be covered by CCTV cameras and all footage must be preserved till the end of the SIR exercise."

Adhikari's concerns about potential manipulation have led him to seek immediate intervention from the Election Commission. He believes these measures are necessary to uphold the integrity of West Bengal's electoral roll revision process.

The BJP's appeal underscores its commitment to a fair electoral process in West Bengal. By involving Central government employees and ensuring CCTV coverage, they aim to address any concerns about undue influence or manipulation during the SIR exercise.

With inputs from PTI