Sonagachi Sex Workers to Receive Special Assistance Camp as Election Commission Addresses Electoral Roll Documentation Issues

In response to concerns over electoral roll documentation, the Election Commission will organise a special assistance camp for sex workers in Sonagachi. Many face challenges tracing records from 2002, and the camp aims to provide immediate support and resolve issues on-site.

In Kolkata's Sonagachi area, sex workers face growing anxiety over the ongoing Special Summary Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Election Commission is planning a special assistance camp to address their unique documentation challenges. Many sex workers struggle to trace records from 2002, a requirement under the SIR process, leading to fears of exclusion from the voters list.

Reports indicate that numerous sex workers are filling out forms but lack links to the 2002 voter lists. A senior official from the Chief Electoral Officer's office mentioned that support would be extended if needed. "We have received reports that the sex workers of these areas are filling up the forms. In case they need any hand-holding we would extend our support," the official stated.

Documentation Challenges for Sex Workers

The commission has acknowledged concerns after organisations highlighted gaps for women who never lived with their parents or were abandoned. Many cannot maintain family links, complicating their ability to meet documentation requirements. The Electoral Registration Officer will personally attend the camp to hear their cases and resolve issues on the spot.

Three organisations working with sex workers and their children—Society for Human Development and Social Action, Usha Multipurpose Cooperative Society Limited, and Amra Padatik—sent a letter last week to CEO Manoj Agarwal. They warned that hundreds in Sonagachi risk exclusion due to the 2002-document requirement, which is nearly impossible for them to meet.

Efforts to Address Concerns

The organisations argue that many sex workers already receive state welfare benefits like Lakshmir Bhandar and widow pensions. They question why their citizenship status should be doubted when they are recognised beneficiaries in government records. The proposed special camp aims to examine cases during hearings and clear genuine applications promptly.

With draft electoral rolls set for release on December 9, claims and objections can be filed until January 8. Hearings and verification will occur between December 9 and January 31, with final rolls published on February 7, 2026. The administration wants to ensure no one is left out due to circumstances beyond their control.

Community Impact and Response

The atmosphere in Sonagachi has become distressing as anxiety overshadows daily life for nearly 10,000 residents. Many point out that required documents, especially proof of family details from 2002, do not exist for them. Rights groups hope the dedicated camp will provide clarity and relief amid these challenges.

Several organisations met with the CEO's office again on Tuesday, urging consideration for women unable to access family histories. Commission sources confirm that these concerns are being taken seriously as they work towards a resolution.

The special camp in Sonagachi is expected to offer much-needed assistance during this period of uncertainty. By addressing documentation issues directly, it aims to ensure that eligible voters are not unfairly excluded from participating in elections.

With inputs from PTI