Election Commission Warns WB officials of strict action if voters aged 85 and above are summoned for Special Intensive Revision hearings. The poll body also extended the warning to cases involving sick, disabled, or vulnerable electors.
A senior Election Commission official said action will be taken against booth-level officers and their supervisors for any violation. The warning came after reports showed elderly and ill voters standing in long queues for SIR hearings across West Bengal.
On December 29, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer issued clear instructions to all district election officers. It stated that voters aged 85 or above, persons with disabilities, and sick electors should not attend hearings if they request exemption. Officials were told to conduct verification at voters’ homes. If notices were already issued, officers were asked to call voters and cancel their appearance.
Despite these directions, the CEO’s office received fresh complaints from several districts. Reports claimed that elderly voters, disabled persons, and even pregnant women were asked to appear in person.
The Election Commission expressed strong displeasure over these incidents. Officials said such actions damage the credibility of the poll body. They questioned why injured or seriously ill voters were forced to visit hearing centres.
The Commission clarified that booth-level officers must conduct door-to-door verification. Hearings for vulnerable voters will take place at their residences during the final phase of the process.
