Election Commission Intensifies Scrutiny of Voter Deletion Requests in West Bengal
Election Commission officials are now meticulously examining more than 42,000 Form 7 applications that were submitted across West Bengal, seeking the exclusion of names from the state's electoral rolls. This rigorous scrutiny follows the conclusion of formal hearings for these applications, marking a critical phase in the preparation for upcoming elections in the region.
Timeline and Volume of Form 7 Submissions
These 42,000-plus Form 7 applications were filed after the draft electoral roll was officially published on December 16, 2025. According to a senior EC official, prior to this draft publication, approximately 56,000 Form 7 applications had already been submitted, with the majority of those having been processed and resolved. The recent surge in submissions highlights a focused effort to address inaccuracies in the voter database as the election period approaches.
Purpose and Significance of Form 7 Applications
Form 7 is specifically utilized to request the deletion of voters from electoral rolls for reasons such as death, relocation to another constituency, or duplication of entries. This process is essential for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the voter list, ensuring that only eligible citizens are registered to vote. Sources close to the matter indicate that the current batch of applications targets over 42,000 names that have been flagged for potential removal, underscoring a concerted drive to rectify discrepancies and enhance the reliability of the electoral system in Bengal.
Official Statements and Verification Process
A senior Election Commission official emphasized the importance of this verification phase, stating, "These submissions are under thorough verification to ensure the integrity and fairness of the electoral roll." The official further noted that districts adjacent to Kolkata, including Howrah and North 24 Parganas, have reported the highest numbers of Form 7 applications. Processing for these districts is anticipated to be completed within the next week, allowing for timely updates to the voter lists.
Political Reactions and Calls for Transparency
Political parties across the spectrum have generally welcomed the Election Commission's scrutiny of Form 7 applications, recognizing it as a necessary step toward clean and accurate voter rolls. However, they have also urged for complete transparency throughout the process to prevent any potential misuse or manipulation. Ensuring that the deletion of names is justified and free from partisan influence remains a key concern for all stakeholders involved in the electoral process.
As the Election Commission continues its verification efforts, the outcome of these 42,000-plus applications will play a pivotal role in shaping the voter landscape for the impending Bengal polls, with implications for electoral fairness and democratic participation in the state.
