Election Commission Implements Stringent Super Checking for West Bengal Electoral Rolls
The Election Commission of India has issued comprehensive directives for the thorough verification of electoral documents in West Bengal, mandating what it terms as "super checking" at multiple administrative levels. This significant move comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the state's voter registration process.
Multi-Level Verification Protocol Established
In a decisive step, the full bench of the commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, has instructed that all Supplementary Integrated Roll (SIR) documents uploaded into the system must undergo rigorous scrutiny. This verification extends to inputs provided by micro observers and roll observers, as well as disposals handled by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs).
The super checking protocol will be implemented across all administrative tiers, starting from District Election Officers (DEOs) and progressing up to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal. According to official instructions, "Digital trail of documents uploaded in the system, inputs by MOs and ROs, disposals by EROs/AEROs would be liable for 'super checking' by DEOs/roll observers/special roll observers/CEO."
Strict Timelines for Hearing Completion
During a crucial video conference with West Bengal CEO Manoj Agarwal and nineteen special roll observers, the Election Commission established aggressive deadlines for pending electoral work. The commission has mandated the generation of all outstanding hearing notices—estimated between 50,000 to 60,000 documents—by 5 PM on the following day.
Furthermore, authorities must ensure the service of approximately 5 to 6 lakh notices by 5 PM on Sunday. Most significantly, the commission has directed the completion of all hearings, including the uploading of associated documents, within a strict seven-day timeframe.
A senior official from the CEO office expressed confidence in meeting this ambitious schedule, stating, "We are confident of completing all hearings in 7 days and believe that extension of the deadline is not required."
Observer Redeployment and Enhanced Responsibilities
In a strategic reorganization, the Election Commission has decided to withdraw micro observers from hearing centers within the next two to three days. These officials will be reassigned to assist roll observers in their respective districts, a move prompted by the Supreme Court's directive requiring receipts to be issued after hearings.
A senior official explained this adjustment, noting, "Since SC ordered giving a receipt after hearing, the micro observers' role was reduced. So, they will be withdrawn from hearing centres in 2-3 days to assist roll observers."
Emphasis on Electoral Roll Purity
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar reiterated the fundamental importance of maintaining clean electoral rolls during Friday's meeting. He emphasized to observers that no illegal voters should remain on the rolls and stressed that ensuring this outcome falls squarely within their responsibilities.
In a particularly forceful directive, CEC Kumar instructed observers that they "cannot remain silent" in the face of irregularities, underscoring the proactive role expected of electoral officials in safeguarding the democratic process.
Documentation and Compliance Requirements
The Election Commission has established specific documentation requirements for previously completed hearings. Officials must upload attendance records and collect documents from these sessions by February 2, 2026, ensuring comprehensive digital documentation of all electoral proceedings.
Additionally, District Election Officers have been instructed to guarantee that AEROs and EROs dispose of all cases strictly according to established norms, without any deviations whatsoever from prescribed procedures.
Administrative Developments and Challenges
Meanwhile, Deputy Election Commissioner Sanjay Kumar is scheduled to visit Malda on Saturday, indicating continued high-level oversight of electoral preparations in the region. In a concerning development, West Bengal CEO Manoj Agarwal revealed on Friday that despite multiple reminders, he has yet to receive reports from District Magistrates regarding the deaths of Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
This comprehensive set of directives represents a significant escalation in the Election Commission's efforts to ensure transparent, accurate, and timely electoral preparations in West Bengal, with particular emphasis on document verification, observer accountability, and strict adherence to procedural timelines.
