Special Intensive Revision in Bengal Creates Family Divides Over Voting Eligibility
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in West Bengal has led to a stark division within numerous households, as some family members find themselves eligible to vote while others have been abruptly removed from the electoral roll. With the deadline now passed, those who were unable to restore their names before Monday midnight face the harsh reality of being disenfranchised in the upcoming assembly election, despite last-minute efforts to rectify the situation.
Families Torn Apart by Electoral Exclusion
For residents like Priyangsu Pal, a 23-year-old from Sealdah, the revision has resulted in the exclusion of nearly his entire family. His name, along with those of his mother and elder sister, has been deleted, leaving only his father as the sole eligible voter in their home. Pal, who cast his first vote in 2024, had eagerly anticipated participating in his inaugural assembly election this year. "I obtained my voter card just two years ago, and this would have been my first assembly election. But I'm almost certain I won't be able to vote," he lamented. Despite submitting all required documents, including his birth certificate and educational certificates, his name was still struck off. He has filed an offline appeal but holds little hope for a resolution before the polls, while his mother, recovering from surgery, has yet to apply, and his sister has submitted an online appeal.
Widespread Disenfranchisement Across Constituencies
Similar stories are emerging from various constituencies. In Chowringhee, Adil Shamsher reported that the names of four brothers in his family have been removed, with only his mother and wife remaining on the list. "I provided documents such as my GST certificate and income tax returns, and I've held a valid passport for years. Yet, all of these were rejected," he expressed frustration. "I'm a taxpayer, but not considered a valid voter — isn't that a stark contrast?" His brothers, including a chartered accountancy student and a general manager at a quick-commerce firm, will also be unable to exercise their voting rights.
In Jorasanko, Varnika Pangoria finds herself uniquely excluded within her own family, as all other members remain on the rolls while her name alone has been deleted. "I've filed an appeal before the tribunal. Let's see what happens," she said, noting the challenge of not having a birth certificate due to being born at home. "At that time, many people like me didn't have birth certificates. What could I do?" This highlights systemic issues in the documentation process that disproportionately affect certain individuals.
Uncertainty and Appeals Amidst Election Preparations
Nikhat Khatoon, a 25-year-old from Chowringhee, shared that she and several of her siblings have also been excluded, with only her mother and one brother remaining eligible. "The rest of us — my sisters and brothers — have had our names deleted," she stated. Although appeals have been filed, the outcome remains uncertain, leaving many in limbo as the election approaches.
As Bengal gears up for the assembly election, numerous families are grappling with the emotional and political impact of this division. The SIR has not only disrupted household dynamics but also raised questions about the fairness and efficiency of the electoral revision process. With some voices set to be heard and others silenced within the same homes, the revision underscores broader concerns about voter inclusion and democratic participation in the state.
