Total Guide to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2025-2026 in West Bengal

 

What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a comprehensive, focused, and large-scale voter verification and roll-updating exercise initiated by the Election Commission of India (ECI). It is critical to distinguish this from the more common, annual Special Summary Revision (SSR).¹ The SIR is a complete, foundational overhaul of the electoral roll.

Legal Mandate: The ECI is conducting this exercise by invoking its constitutional and statutory powers, primarily:

• Article 324 of the Constitution of India: Grants the ECI superintendence, direction, and control of elections.¹
• Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950: Provides for the revision of electoral rolls.¹
• The Registration of Electors Rules, 1960: Outlines the specific procedures for such revisions.¹

Official Notifications: The SIR 2025-2026 process is governed by specific ECI orders. The two most pertinent notifications are:

1. ECI Order No. 23/2025-ERS (Vol.II) dated 24.06.2025: This was the foundational order that initiated the nationwide SIR, beginning with Phase I in Bihar.¹
2. ECI Order No. 23/2025-ERS (Vol.II) dated 27.10.2025: This subsequent order launched Phase II of the SIR, extending the exercise to West Bengal and 11 other States/Union Territories. This order also contains crucial modifications based on the experience in Bihar.³

Scope of Phase II: This is a massive undertaking, covering approximately 51 crore voters across 12 States and UTs: Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.¹

Official Qualifying Date: For the purpose of enrolling new voters (i.e., citizens turning 18), the qualifying date for inclusion in this SIR is January 1, 2026.¹

The Stated Objective: “Purity of Electoral Rolls”

The ECI’s stated rationale for the SIR is to ensure the “purity” of the electoral rolls.¹³ This exercise, last conducted in West Bengal in 2002 ¹³, is deemed necessary for a three-fold purpose:

1. Inclusion: To enroll all new, eligible citizens who will be 18 by the January 1, 2026 qualifying date.¹
2. Removal: To remove all ineligible entries, such as deceased persons, permanently shifted voters, and duplicate entries.¹
3. Correction: To correct all existing voter details to ensure accuracy.¹

The ECI has justified this intensive, door-to-door verification by highlighting the more than 20-year gap since the last SIR in 2002-2004.¹³ This long period, combined with significant demographic changes and migration, has led to political parties from all sides continuously complaining about the “impurity” of the rolls, prompting this comprehensive update.¹³

The Political Context in West Bengal: A High-Stakes Battleground

The SIR in West Bengal is not being conducted in a political vacuum. It has become a central point of a high-stakes political conflict ahead of the 2026 State Assembly elections, which is the primary source of public confusion and anxiety.¹⁷

• The Ruling Party’s Position (Trinamool Congress): The SIR has been met with fierce opposition from the ruling TMC. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has led massive rallies in Kolkata, labeling the exercise as “silent, invisible rigging”.⁸ The party’s apprehension is that the SIR is a “malicious exercise” ¹⁸ and a “conspiracy” ¹⁸ designed to delete the names of genuine, eligible voters, particularly those from marginalized communities, who are perceived as opposing the BJP.¹⁸
• The Opposition’s Position (BJP): Conversely, the BJP has vocally welcomed and supported the SIR. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has led rallies demanding the “proper” execution of the SIR.²² The BJP’s stated goal for the SIR is the removal of “Bangladeshi infiltrators” from the voter lists.⁸ The party’s slogan for the exercise has been “Delete, detain, Deport” ²³, with claims that the SIR must be used to remove “1 crore 25 lakh Bangladeshi Muslims and Rohingyas”.²⁴

This intense political clash has framed the SIR not as a neutral administrative update, but as a zero-sum battle over the very composition of the electorate. This environment creates an exceptionally high risk for administrative errors. Any mistake by a Booth Level Officer (BLO) (e.g., being on-field without an ID card ²⁵) or a technical glitch (e.g., the CEO website crashing ²⁶) is immediately interpreted by the public not as an error, but as a deliberate, politically-motivated act of disenfranchisement. This is the fertile ground for the public anxiety and potential legal grievances that electors may face.

The Core Mechanism: The 2002 Electoral Roll Benchmark

The “Matching-Mapping” Process Explained

The technical core of the SIR in West Bengal is a “matching-mapping” process.²⁷ The ECI has directed that the entire current electoral roll (from 2025) be compared against the electoral roll from the last Special Intensive Revision, which was conducted in 2002.¹⁴

This 2002 roll serves as the official “reference point” for the entire exercise.¹⁴ Every voter is expected to link their current registration to either their own name or the name of a parent/grandparent on this 2002 list.

How to Check Your or Your Ancestors’ Names in the 2002 Roll:

1. Access the Portal: Navigate to the new official CEO West Bengal portal: https://ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in/. (Note: The previous ceowestbengal.nic.in domain is being replaced, and old links may show “Forbidden” errors).²⁶
2. Find the Link: On the homepage, locate the option named “Elector Roll SIR 2002”.³²
3. Navigate: You must select your District, then your Assembly Constituency, and finally your Polling Station as they were structured in 2002.³²
4. Verify: Click the “Final Roll” link for your polling station. This will open a PDF of the 2002 list, which you can search for your name or the names of your parents/grandparents.²⁹

The Critical Insight: Why Most Voters (68%) Will Not Match

The ECI’s own preliminary “matching-mapping” data reveals a stark reality that is central to understanding this SIR. As of early November 2025, the data for West Bengal is as follows:

• Total Electors (2025 Roll): 7,66,37,529 ²⁵
• Names Matched with 2002 Roll: 2,45,71,114 ²⁸
• Result: Only 06% of all current voters in West Bengal have been successfully matched to the 2002 list. This means a staggering 68% (or over 5.2 crore voters) are currently designated as “Unmatched”.²⁸

This 68% “Unmatched” statistic is not an anomaly; it is the inevitable consequence of a 23-year gap. This group includes an entire generation of new voters (aged 18-41), millions who have migrated within or into the state for work or marriage, and many whose personal or locational details have changed spelling.

This reality has created a “Two-Track” verification system that will define every voter’s experience:

• Track 1 (“Matched” – 32%): These voters will have a simple process. They must submit the Enumeration Form indicating their 2002 link, and their inclusion in the draft roll should be straightforward.¹⁵
• Track 2 (“Unmatched” – 68%): This vast majority will face a more complex, multi-step process. They will be administratively flagged. After the draft roll is published, they will be issued a formal notice by the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO).³ They will then be required to attend a formal hearing and provide documents to prove their eligibility.¹⁶

This “unmatched” status is the primary source of public anxiety and the precise legal juncture where most administrative and legal grievances will arise.

The SIR Procedure: A Chronological Walkthrough for Citizens

The entire SIR process in West Bengal is bound by a strict, official timeline.

Table 1: SIR West Bengal 2025-2026 Official Schedule

 

Phase	Activity	Start Date	End Date	Legal/Procedural Significance
Phase 1	House-to-House Enumeration	Nov 4, 2025	Dec 4, 2025	BLOs visit every home to distribute & collect the “Modified Enumeration Form (Annexure III)”.[1, 33, 34]
Phase 2	Draft Electoral Roll Publication	Dec 9, 2025	Dec 9, 2025	The first public list is released. It will only contain names of those who successfully submitted the Enumeration Form.[16, 34]
Phase 3	Claims & Objections Period	Dec 9, 2025	Jan 8, 2026	The statutory period for citizens to file claims for inclusion (if left out) or objections to inclusions.[33, 34, 35]
Phase 4	Hearing & Verification (Notice Phase)	Dec 9, 2025	Jan 31, 2026	EROs issue notices to “Unmatched” voters, conduct quasi-judicial hearings, and decide on all claims/objections.[16, 33, 34]
Phase 5	Final Electoral Roll Publication	Feb 7, 2026	Feb 7, 2026	The final, “purified” voter list for West Bengal is published, forming the basis for the 2026 election.1

 

Phase 1: The Enumeration (Nov 4 – Dec 4, 2025)

This is the ongoing, door-to-door verification phase.

• The BLO Visit: Over 80,000 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are deployed across West Bengal for this task.²⁵
• Identifying Your BLO: The BLO must carry an official ECI identity card. Many of these IDs feature QR codes that can be scanned for verification.²⁹ Electors should not engage with anyone who cannot produce this official ID.²⁵ An elector can also find their BLO’s contact details on the ECI Voter Portal or the ECINET App.³⁶
• What if I miss the visit?
  1. The BLO is required to make at least three repeat visits to locked or closed houses to ensure no one is left out.²⁹
  2. An adult family member is permitted to fill and sign the Enumeration Form on behalf of an absent family member.³⁹
  3. Electors can (and should, if they miss the BLO) submit the form online via the official portals.²⁹
• The Most Critical Procedural Change (vs. Bihar):
  The ECI Order dated 27.10.2025 explicitly states: “No document is to be collected from electors during the Enumeration Phase”.3 This is a direct correction to the highly controversial Bihar SIR process.40 The BLO should not ask for or collect any copies of Aadhaar, EPIC, or any other document. Their only task is to distribute and collect the signed Enumeration Form.

The Forms: What You Are Actually Filling Out

The SIR does not use the standard Form 6, 7, or 8 for this initial verification step.⁴¹ Instead, it uses two special forms specified in the ECI’s October 27 notification ³:

1. “Modified Enumeration Form (Annexure III)” ¹
2. “Declaration Form (Annexure IV)” ¹

What is on the Enumeration Form (Annexure III)?

• The form will be “partially pre-filled” with the elector’s current details (Name, EPIC number, address, photograph) as they appear on the 2025 roll.⁸
• The elector must check these details for accuracy and fill in the missing fields, which include: Date of Birth, parents’ names and EPIC numbers, mobile number, and Aadhaar number (which is optional).³³
• The 2002 Section: The form contains a critical section divided into two boxes for the 2002 roll linkage ²⁹:
  • Left Box: For voters whose own name is on the 2002 list.
  • Right Box: For voters whose name is not on the 2002 list, but their parents’ or grandparents’ names are.²⁹

How to Fill and Submit (Offline):

1. The BLO will provide two copies of the Enumeration Form for each voter.²⁹
2. The elector must fill and sign both²⁹
3. The BLO must countersign both copies and return one copy to the elector with a stamped acknowledgement receipt.²⁹

This stamped receipt is the elector’s only proof of participation in the enumeration. It is a legally critical document that must be kept safe. If an elector’s name is missing from the draft roll on December 9, this receipt will be their primary evidence for filing a claim.²⁹

What if I am “Unmatched” (in the 68%)?

The elector should leave the 2002-reference boxes blank.29 They must not fill in false information. By leaving it blank, they are correctly identifying themselves as “Unmatched” and will be processed in Phase 4 (The Hearing Phase).

Phase 2 & 3: Draft Roll, Claims, and Objections (Dec 9, 2025 – Jan 8, 2026)

• Draft Roll (Dec 9): On this date, the ECI will publish the Draft Electoral Roll. This roll will only contain the names of electors whose Enumeration Forms were successfully received and processed.¹⁶
• The “Exclusion List”: Simultaneously, the CEO and EROs will publish lists of names not included in the Draft Roll.¹⁶ This list will specify the probable cause noted by the BLO (e.g., Absent, Shifted, Deceased, Duplicate, or “Enumeration Form not returned”).³ These lists will be posted on the CEO’s website and in local public offices.³
• Your Legal Action: Every citizen must check the Draft Roll on December 9.
  • If a name is missing: The individual must file a Claim (using the standard Form 6) to be included.³⁵
  • If an ineligible name is included: Any person can file an Objection (using Form 7) to have that name removed.³⁵

Phase 4: The Hearing and Verification (Notice Phase) (Dec 9 – Jan 31, 2026)

This is the most critical phase for the 68% “Unmatched” voters.

• The “Notice”: The Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) will issue a formal, individual notice to all electors who submitted a form but could not be linked to the 2002 SIR roll.³
• The Hearing: This notice will summon the person to a hearing to “ascertain their eligibility as an Elector”.¹⁶ This is a formal, quasi-judicial process where the “unmatched” elector will be required to produce documents to prove their eligibility.⁴⁶
• The Legal Mandate: This hearing is not optional. Under Section 22 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the ERO must give the person concerned a “reasonable opportunity of being heard” before deleting their name from the roll.⁴⁷ This “reasonable opportunity” is the cornerstone of the elector’s legal rights. Any failure to provide this (e.g., no notice, an impossibly short timeline, or no hearing) is a violation of natural justice and the statute itself, forming strong grounds for a legal challenge.⁴⁸

Documentation and Digital Tools

The 12 “Indicative Documents” for Hearings

When are they used? These documents are only required during the Phase 4 Hearing, and only if an elector is “unmatched” and receives a notice from the ERO.²⁹ They are not to be given to the BLO during the enumeration phase.⁴⁰

The very nature of these documents is the basis for legal challenges, such as the DMK’s petition in the Supreme Court, which argues the SIR is a “de facto NRC” (National Register of Citizens).²¹ The challenge argues that requiring legacy documents (like pre-1987 certificates, land records, or matriculation certificates) ¹³ places a “citizenship-like burden of proof” ²¹ on the voter. This disproportionately burdens marginalized communities, migrants, women, and the poor, who are least likely to possess such documents.²¹

Table 2: List of 12 Indicative Documents for Eligibility Verification (Post-Notice Phase)

This list, based on ECI directives, is applicable for the Phase II SIR in West Bengal.9

Document Number	Document Description
1	Birth Certificate issued by a competent authority.
2	Valid Indian Passport.
3	Matriculation / Educational Certificate from a recognized Board/University.
4	Identity Card or Pension Payment Order (for Central/State Govt/PSU employees/pensioners).
5	Any identity card/certificate issued by Indian Govt/Banks/Local authorities/PSU prior to July 1, 1987.
6	Permanent Residence Certificate (PRC) from a State authority.
7	Forest Rights Certificate (Pattas).
8	OBC/ST/SC or other Caste Certificate from a competent authority.
9	National Register of Citizens (NRC) (wherever it exists).
10	Family Register prepared by state or local authorities.
11	Any land or house allotment certificate from the government.
12	Aadhaar Card (Added as the 12th document for Phase II).

The Crucial Aadhaar Caveat: The ECI and the CEO West Bengal have explicitly clarified that Aadhaar is included as proof of identity only. It is not to be accepted as proof of citizenship, domicile, or date of birth.⁹

Using Digital Portals: ECINET and the CEO Website

To facilitate the process, the ECI has rolled out significant digital infrastructure.

• Official Portals:
  • ECI Voter Portal: https://voters.eci.gov.in/ ³⁴
  • CEO West Bengal Portal: https://ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in/ ²⁶
• The ECINET App: This is the ECI’s new, unified, all-in-one mobile application.³⁰ It is designed to replace and integrate over 40 older apps (like the Voter Helpline App) into a single interface.⁵⁷
• Key Digital Functions for SIR:
  • Submit Forms Online: Electors can submit the Enumeration Form online, especially if they miss the BLO visit.³⁰ This process involves entering the EPIC number, filling the pre-filled form, and using an e-signature (often linked to an Aadhaar-registered mobile) to submit.³⁰
  • Check 2002 Roll: The portals allow access to the 2002 SIR roll for verification.²⁶
  • Track Application Status: Electors can track the status of all submitted forms.⁵⁶
  • “Book-a-Call with BLO”: A new feature on the ECINET app allows electors to schedule a call with their designated BLO for assistance.³⁶
  • Register Complaints: The app and portals integrate functions for filing complaints or suggestions.⁵⁶

Comprehensive FAQ (50 Critical Questions for West Bengal)

The Basics: What, Why, and When

1. What is this Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?

A: It is a complete, door-to-door re-verification of every voter in West Bengal, managed by the ECI. It is not the normal annual update.1

2. Why is this happening in West Bengal now?

A: The ECI’s official reason is to “purify” the voter rolls 13, as the last intensive check was in 2002.14 It is also being done ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.10

3. Is this happening only in West Bengal?

A: No. It is Phase II of a national process, covering 12 states and UTs, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, UP, and Gujarat.1

4. Is this the same as the NRC?

A: Legally, no. The ECI has no authority to decide citizenship.29 However, political parties like the DMK have challenged it in the Supreme Court, calling it a “de facto NRC” 21 because of the “citizenship-like burden of proof” 21 it places on “unmatched” voters.

5. Is this exercise mandatory? Do I have to participate?

A: Yes. To ensure your name remains on the voter list, you must fill out and submit the new Enumeration Form.15 Failure to do so will result in your name being omitted from the Draft Roll.16

6. What is the final deadline for this whole process?

A: The house-to-house enumeration (Phase 1) ends on December 4, 2025.34 The entire SIR process, including all hearings and appeals, will conclude with the publication of the Final Electoral Roll on February 7, 2026.1

The 2002 Electoral Roll

7. Why does the 2002 electoral roll suddenly matter?

A: It is the benchmark.14 The ECI is “matching-mapping” all 7.66 crore current voters against this 23-year-old list.28

8. What happens if my name is on the 2002 list?

A: Your process is simple. You must indicate this on your Enumeration Form.29 You are “Matched.” Your inclusion in the draft roll should be automatic.15

9. My name is not on the 2002 list, but my father’s/grandfather’s is. What do I do?

A: This is good. The Enumeration Form has a specific box for this.29 Fill in your relative’s details exactly as they appear on the 2002 roll. This links your family lineage and aids verification.

10. I am 35. My name is correct, but I am not on the 2002 list. What happens?

A: You are “Unmatched.” This is the case for 68% of Bengal.28 You MUST fill and return the Enumeration Form (leaving the 2002 boxes blank).29 After Dec 9, you will be issued a notice by the ERO and must attend a hearing to prove your eligibility.16

11. Where can I find the 2002 roll to check?

A: On the CEO West Bengal website: https://ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in/.26 You will need to know your district, assembly, and polling station from 2002.

12. The 2002 roll is in Bengali and hard to search. What can I do?

A: This is a known issue.27 The ECI has been working to improve the search function.27 If you cannot find it, you can still submit your form; you will simply be processed as “Unmatched” and called for a hearing.

The BLO Visit & The Enumeration Form

13. How do I identify my BLO?

A: They must have an official ECI ID card.29 Some may have QR codes for verification.29 You can also look up your BLO’s name and contact number on the ECI voter portal or the ECINET app.36

14. What if I am not home when the BLO visits?

A: They must visit at least three times.29 An adult family member can fill and sign for you.39 The best option is to fill the form online.30

15. What is the “Enumeration Form (Annexure III)”?

A: It is a special SIR form, not the usual Form 6/7/8.3 It is pre-filled with your current data and asks you to verify it and provide the 2002 roll link.29

16. What documents do I need to give the BLO?

A: NONE. The BLO is forbidden from collecting any documents in this phase.3 You only give them the two signed copies of the Enumeration Form.

17. What do I get back from the BLO?

A: One of your two signed forms, countersigned and stamped as an acknowledgement receipt.29 This is your most important proof. Do not lose it.

18. What happens if I don’t submit the Enumeration Form at all?

A: Your name will not be included in the Draft Roll.16 You will be put on the “Exclusion List”.3 You will then have to file a new “Claim” (Form 6) between Dec 9 and Jan 8 to get back on the list.35

19. My BLO did not come. What do I do?

A: Do not wait. Go online to https://voters.eci.gov.in/ or use the ECINET app.30 Fill and submit your Enumeration Form digitally before the Dec 4 deadline. You can also use the app to “Book-a-Call with BLO” 36 or call the voter helpline 1950.62

20. Can I fill the form online?

A: Yes. The ECI has made the Enumeration Form available online at https://ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in/ and on the ECINET app.30

21. How does the online submission work?

A: You provide your EPIC number to get the pre-filled form. You fill in the remaining details and use an e-signature to submit it. You will get a digital acknowledgement.30

22. What if my name is spelled wrong on the 2002 list?

A: In the 2002 reference box, write the name exactly as it appears on the 2002 roll, even with the error.29 This helps the matching algorithm. You can correct your current details in the upper part of the form.

23. My current EPIC has my married name, but the 2002 roll has my maiden name. What do I do?

A: Fill the top part of the form with your current, correct details. In the 2002 reference section, use the details (maiden name, father’s name) as they appear on the 2002 roll.29 The ERO will link them during verification.

24. A Booth Level Agent (BLA) from a political party is with the BLO. Is this allowed?

A: Yes. The ECI encourages BLAs from recognized political parties to accompany BLOs to ensure transparency.29

25. The BLA is offering to take my form.

A: ECI guidelines do allow BLAs to collect forms and submit them to the BLO.16 However, for your own security, it is always safest to get the stamped acknowledgement receipt directly from the BLO.29

26. What is a “Declaration Form (Annexure IV)”?

A: This form 3 is a declaration to be attached to new registrations (Form 6) or for voters making corrections, attesting to the truthfulness of their statements.

27. I am a new voter turning 18 by Jan 1, 2026. What do I do?

A: The SIR is for you too. Your BLO will have blank Form 6s.3 You must fill Form 6 to apply for new registration.15 You will likely have to attend a hearing and show documents (like a Birth Certificate) to the ERO.15

28. I need to correct my name/address on my current card. How do I do this?

A: You can mark the correction on the Enumeration Form.37 However, the formal way is to file a Form 8 (Application for Correction/Shifting).42 You can do this online or during the Claims & Objections period (Dec 9 – Jan 8).

29. I need to delete the name of a deceased relative. How?

A: You should file a Form 7 (Objection to inclusion/Deletion).42 You will likely need to attach a death certificate.

30. I live in Kolkata but am from a village in Bankura. Where do I fill the form?

A: You fill the form only at the address where you are “ordinarily resident” and currently registered to vote.16 Do not fill forms at multiple locations; doing so is an offense and may lead to cancellation.29

The Hearing & Appeal Process

31. Who is the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO)?

A: The ERO is a senior government official (like an SDM).16 They are the legal authority who conducts hearings and makes the final decision to include or delete your name. They function as a quasi-judicial authority.46

32. What is a “notice”?

A: It is a formal, written summons from the ERO.16 It will be issued after Dec 9 if you are “unmatched” from the 2002 roll.3 It calls you to a hearing to prove you are an eligible voter.16

33. What documents should I take to the hearing?

A: Bring your stamped acknowledgement receipt 33, your current EPIC, and any document from the List of 12 Indicative Documents (see Table 2) that proves your eligibility, age, and residence.13

34. What if I don’t have any of the 12 documents?

A: This is the central problem identified by critics.21 You must still attend the hearing. The law (Rule 9, Reg. of Electors Rules 1960) 65 allows the ERO to make inquiries. If you are rejected, you must file an appeal immediately.

35. What if I don’t get a notice but my name is deleted?

A: This is illegal. Section 22 of the RPA, 1950 requires the ERO to give you a “reasonable opportunity of being heard” before deletion.47 This failure of process is a strong ground for an appeal and a High Court writ petition.

36. My name is in the Draft Roll. Am I safe?

A: Not entirely. The “Claims and Objections” period (Dec 9 – Jan 8) allows any other person to file an “Objection” (Form 7) against your inclusion.35 If this happens, you will still be called for a hearing by the ERO.

37. What is the appeal process if the ERO deletes my name?

A: There is a two-step statutory appeal process. You must use this before going to the High Court.16

38. Step 1: First Appeal?

A: An appeal against the ERO’s decision lies with the District Magistrate (DM) / District Election Officer (DEO).16

39. Step 2: Second Appeal?

A: An appeal against the DM/DEO’s decision lies with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal.16

40. What is the timeline for an appeal?

A: Under Rule 23 of the 1960 Rules 68, you must file the appeal (in the form of a memorandum) within 15 days of the ERO’s decision.68

41. What if I missed the ERO hearing? Can I still appeal?

A: No. The rules state that an appeal cannot be preferred if the appellant “has not availed himself of his right to be heard…to the ERO”.68 This is why attending the ERO hearing is mandatory, even if you have no documents.

Documents and Digital Tools

42. What is this “List of 12 Indicative Documents”?

A: It is the list of documents (see Table 2) that the ERO will accept as proof of eligibility during the hearing, if you are “unmatched” from the 2002 roll.13

43. Is Aadhaar mandatory?

A: No. It is optional on the Enumeration Form.37 It is one of 12 “indicative documents” for the hearing.9

44. Is Aadhaar proof of citizenship for the SIR?

A: No. The ECI has explicitly clarified that Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship, domicile, or date of birth.9 It is only proof of identity.

45. What is the ECINET app? Do I need it?

A: It is the ECI’s new, official, all-in-one app.57 You don’t need it, but it is very useful for submitting your form online, tracking your status, and contacting your BLO.36

46. The CEO West Bengal website is down. What do I do?

A: This has been a reported issue.26 Keep trying. The online submission portal (voters.eci.gov.in) and the ECINET app are managed centrally by ECI in Delhi and may be more stable.30

47. What is the “e-sign feature”?

A: This is a new feature in the ECINET app.57 It allows you to digitally sign and verify your form submission using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number, making the online process more secure.30

48. I am a Person with Disability (PwD). Are there special provisions?

A: Yes. The ECI has directed all election officials to facilitate vulnerable groups, including PwD.67 You can also use Form 8 to have your disability status marked in the electoral roll 42, which entitles you to benefits on polling day.

49. I am an “overseas elector” (NRI). Does this apply to me?

A: The SIR is primarily for residents. As an overseas elector, your registration process is separate, using Form 6A.42

50. What is the political controversy? Will I be removed?

A: The CEO of West Bengal has publicly stated, “no legitimate voters’ will be removed”.50 However, the process is complicated. To protect yourself:

1. Submit your Enumeration Form (before Dec 4).
2. Keep the stamped receipt.
3. Check the Draft Roll on Dec 9.
4. Attend any hearing you are called to.

Your Statutory Rights: The Formal Appeal Process (Before the High Court)

The Quasi-Judicial Role of the ERO

The Electoral Registration Officer (ERO), typically an officer of SDM-rank ¹⁶, is not merely an administrator. In the matter of disposing of claims, objections, and deletions, the ERO functions as a quasi-judicial authority.⁴⁶ Their decision to include or delete a name is a legal order.

• The Legal Basis (Section 22, RPA 1950): The ERO’s power to correct, transpose, or delete an entry (e.g., if a person “is otherwise not entitled to be registered”) is granted by Section 22 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.⁴⁷
• The Legal Limit (The Proviso): This power is not The proviso to Section 22 ⁴⁸ explicitly states that before taking such action (on grounds of non-residence or non-entitlement), the ERO “shall give the person concerned a reasonable opportunity of being heard in respect of the action proposed to be taken in relation to him”.⁴⁷

This “reasonable opportunity” clause is the single most important legal protection for a citizen during the SIR. The ECI’s “Notice Phase” ¹⁶ is the administrative process built to comply with this statutory requirement. Any failure in this (e.g., a notice sent to the wrong address, a hearing scheduled with 24 hours’ notice, a non-speaking order of rejection) is a direct violation of Section 22 and, by extension, the principles of natural justice. This is the primary hook for any legal challenge.

The Two-Tier Statutory Appeal Hierarchy

Before approaching a High Court, the law requires that an aggrieved person exhaust all available statutory remedies. The ECI has established a clear, two-level appeal process within the Commission’s administrative structure.¹⁶

1. Appeal 1: To the District Magistrate (DEO)

• Authority: The District Magistrate (DM) of the concerned district acts as the first appellate officer.¹⁶
• Legal Basis: Rule 23 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960.⁶⁸
• Procedure: A person must file a memorandum of appeal within 15 days of the ERO’s decision.⁶⁸ Critically, the appeal cannot be filed if the person did not avail themselves of the ERO’s hearing.⁶⁸

2. Appeal 2: To the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal

• Authority: The CEO of the state hears the second and final statutory appeal.¹⁶
• Procedure: This follows a rejection by the DM/DEO, using the same memorandum format.

When the System Fails: Seeking Judicial Review at the Calcutta High Court

Legal Grounds for a Writ Petition

While the statutory appeals must be pursued, there are circumstances where an aggrieved citizen must seek the intervention of the Hon’ble High Court at Calcutta under its writ jurisdiction (Article 226 of the Constitution). The right to vote is a precious constitutional and statutory right, and its arbitrary denial warrants judicial review.

• When to File a Writ Petition:
  1. After Exhausting Appeals: The most common route is to challenge the final appellate order of the CEO, or the original order of the ERO/DM, as arbitrary and illegal.
  2. Against a Gross Violation of Rights: If the ERO’s action is patently illegal, malafide, or vitiated by a complete violation of natural justice (e.g., no notice whatsoever before deletion), a writ petition may be filed directly.
  3. Challenging the Process Itself: As seen in the Supreme Court challenges to the SIR ⁶, the very guidelines of the SIR can be challenged as arbitrary, discriminatory, and violative of Article 14 (Equality), Article 21 (Life and Liberty), and Article 326 (Universal Suffrage) of the Constitution.
• Key Legal Grounds for a Challenge:
  • Violation of Natural Justice: This is the primary and most effective ground. This includes:
    • Failure to provide a notice of hearing.⁴⁷
    • Failure to provide a “reasonable opportunity of being heard” ⁴⁸, e.g., giving insufficient time to procure 23-year-old documents.
    • The ERO acting on a “probable cause” from a BLO ³ without applying their own quasi-judicial mind.
  • Violation of Statute: A clear argument that the ERO’s order is in direct contravention of Section 22 of the RPA, 1950 ⁴⁸ or the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960.⁷⁰
  • Arbitrariness (Violation of Article 14): The ERO’s decision is a “non-speaking” order, meaning it gives no cogent reason for rejecting the citizen’s documents or testimony.
  • Malafide Intent: Arguing the deletion was not an error but a deliberate act, perhaps based on political, religious, or ethnic bias.

How Patra’s Law Chambers Can Provide Assistance

The SIR process is complex, and the data shows that the majority of voters in West Bengal (68%) are in the “Unmatched” category, placing them at risk of bureaucratic exclusion.²⁸ The highly-politicized environment ⁸ only increases this risk.

Our firm, Patra’s Law Chambers, is equipped to provide expert legal assistance at every stage. Regarding any such matter or any such issues, we can be contacted in this regard, and we are prepared to file any kind of cases before the High Court on behalf of aggrieved citizens.

1. Advisory: Guiding clients on how to correctly fill the Enumeration Form, prepare a documentation file for ERO hearings, and understand their rights.
2. Statutory Appeals: Drafting and filing the statutory First Appeal to the District Magistrate and the Second Appeal to the Chief Electoral Officer, ensuring the 15-day deadline ⁶⁸ is met and the legal arguments are sound.
3. Judicial Review: For aggrieved individuals whose rights have been violated, our team of constitutional and administrative law experts will draft, file, and argue Writ Petitions before the Hon’ble High Court at Calcutta ⁷³ to quash arbitrary orders and safeguard their fundamental right to be on the electoral roll.

If you or anyone you know is facing an unjust notice, a hearing, or an order of deletion from the electoral roll, please contact us for immediate assistance.

• Patra’s Law Chambers
• Kolkata Office: NICCO HOUSE, 6th Floor, 2, Hare Street, Kolkata-700001 (Near Calcutta High Court)
• Delhi Office: House no: 4455/5, First Floor, Ward No. XV, Gali Shahid Bhagat Singh, Main Bazar Road, Paharganj, New Delhi-110055
• Website: patraslawchambers.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +91 890 222 4444 / +91 9044 04 9044

Appendix: Key Notifications and Resources

Key Notifications & Orders

• ECI Order No. 23/2025-ERS (Vol.II) dated 24.06.2025: The foundational order initiating the nationwide SIR.¹
• ECI Order No. 23/2025-ERS (Vol.II) dated 27.10.2025: The specific order for Phase II, detailing modifications for West Bengal (and 11 other states), including the “no document collection” rule and the new Annexure III/IV forms.³
• ECI Order No. 23/2025-ERS/Vol.II dated 09.09.2025: The ECI direction regarding the use of Aadhaar as an identity³

Relevant Statutes

• The Representation of the People Act, 1950 (especially Sections 21, 22).¹
• The Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 (especially Rule 23).¹

Official ECI Links

• ECI Voter Portal: https://voters.eci.gov.in/ ⁴²
• CEO West Bengal: https://ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in/ ²⁶
• ECINET App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.³⁰

Resources: SIR ALL NOTIFICATONS.PDF

Works cited

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2. SSR Schedule 2025 – Chief Electoral Officer Goa, accessed on November 6, 2025, https://www.ceogoa.nic.in/pdf/SSRSchedule2025.pdf
3. Election Commission of India Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road, New Delhi-110001 – Chief Electoral Officer | Kerala, accessed on November 6, 2025, https://www.ceo.kerala.gov.in/ceokerala/pdf/SIR/sir-12-states.pdf
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