Published on: 09 Feb, 2026 21:32 IST
In a stern warning to all states, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant declared on Monday that the Supreme Court will not tolerate any obstruction in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal.
“We will not allow any impediment in SIR. This must be understood by all states,” the CJI asserted during a heated hearing on petitions challenging the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) voter list revision exercise.
The bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, addressed serious allegations of disruptions, including threats, violence, and even the burning of objection forms submitted by election officials.
In a strong move, the Supreme Court issued a show-cause notice to West Bengal’s Director General of Police (DGP), directing the top cop to file a personal affidavit explaining why no FIRs were registered despite complaints of vandalism and intimidation against SIR officials. The court recalled its earlier January directive to state police to ensure law and order and assist the ECI in completing the process smoothly.
To facilitate fair scrutiny and address concerns raised by stakeholders—including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has challenged aspects of the SIR—the Supreme Court extended the deadline for final publication of the voter list by 7 days beyond the original February 14 date.
The extension allows more time for verifying documents, resolving claims and objections, and streamlining the process amid reported staffing and logistical issues.
The bench also clarified that micro-observers deployed by the ECI have no power to pass final orders or adjudicate claims—they serve only as observers. The court permitted the replacement of micro-observers with suitable Group B officers offered by the state government, directing West Bengal to ensure these 8,505 officers report to district election authorities promptly.
The developments come amid ongoing tensions over the SIR, which aims to clean up electoral rolls by identifying discrepancies, removing ineligible names, and ensuring only genuine voters remain listed. Critics, including the state government, have alleged irregularities and potential large-scale deletions, while the ECI has defended the constitutional necessity of the exercise.
The Supreme Court’s message was unambiguous: the SIR process will proceed without hindrance, with the apex court ready to issue any necessary clarifications or directions to protect the integrity of electoral rolls.
The matter remains under active judicial monitoring, with the next hearing likely to review compliance with today’s orders.