The Election Commission of India has formally issued a notice to Nobel laureate and economist Amartya Sen, scheduling a hearing for January 16, 2026, concerning a matter related to his Special Intensive Revision (SIR) form. The development has sparked immediate political backlash, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) condemning the action as tantamount to insulting the people of West Bengal.
Details of the Election Commission Notice
According to an official from the Election Commission, the notice pertains to discrepancies or issues identified in the SIR form submitted by Amartya Sen. The SIR is a process undertaken to update and purify the electoral rolls. In a considerate move acknowledging his age, the Commission has stated that the concerned Booth Level Officer (BLO) will visit Sen at his residence to conduct the hearing. This is in strict adherence to EC rules which provide such facilities for individuals above 85 years of age.
Political Reaction and Allegations
The ruling party of West Bengal, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has reacted sharply to the EC's notice. Party leaders have framed the action against the revered intellectual as not just an attack on an individual, but as a direct affront to the collective pride of Bengal. They allege that such moves are politically motivated, especially in the charged atmosphere surrounding electoral processes. The party's statement underscores the deep cultural and intellectual respect Sen commands in his home state.
Procedure and What Happens Next
The hearing scheduled for January 16 will be a crucial step. The BLO's visit to Sen's residence will follow the due process where the economist or his representatives will have the opportunity to present their case or clarify the details on the form in question. The outcome of this hearing could determine whether Sen's name remains on the electoral roll without further issue or if additional steps will be required. This incident highlights the meticulous, albeit sometimes controversial, nature of the Election Commission's roll revision process.
The event brings together key themes of electoral integrity, procedural compliance, and political symbolism. As a figure of global stature, any official action involving Amartya Sen naturally attracts significant public and media attention, transforming an administrative procedure into a major point of political discourse in India.
