Mamata Flags SIR Process Flaws, Writes to Chief Election Commissioner
Mamata Banerjee criticizes the SIR process for lacking reasoned application and transparency.
Photo by Brett Jordan
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging flaws in the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Banerjee claims that proper acknowledgment is not being issued for documents submitted by electors, depriving them of proof of submission. She also alleges that voters already mapped to the 2002 electoral rolls are being issued unnecessary hearing notices.
This is the fifth letter written by the Chief Minister to the CEC since the SIR process began in West Bengal. Banerjee asserts that the SIR process is mechanical and driven by technicalities, causing harassment and denial of constitutional rights to genuine voters.
Key Facts
SIR process: Alleged flaws flagged by Mamata Banerjee
Non-issuance: Documentary acknowledgement during SIR hearings
Voters: Mapped to 2002 electoral rolls issued notices
Letters: Fifth letter written by CM to CEC
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Election Commission of India, Representation of People's Act
Connects to syllabus topics like constitutional bodies, electoral reforms, and issues related to voter participation
Potential question types: Statement-based questions on ECI powers, functions, and recent initiatives; analytical questions on electoral roll revision processes
Visual Insights
West Bengal: Focus of Electoral Roll Revision Concerns
Highlights West Bengal, where the Chief Minister has raised concerns about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process of electoral rolls. The map emphasizes the location of the issue.
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More Information
Background
The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established on January 25, 1950, a day before India became a Republic. The Constitution of India, under Article 324, provides for an independent and autonomous Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. Initially, the ECI was a single-member body, but after the Election Commissioner Amendment Act of 1989, it became a multi-member body, comprising a Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners.
The electoral roll revision process has evolved significantly over the years, from manual processes to digitized systems, aiming to improve accuracy and accessibility. Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a focused effort within this broader framework to address specific issues or gaps in the electoral rolls, often targeting areas with known discrepancies or low voter turnout.
Latest Developments
In recent years, the ECI has focused on leveraging technology to enhance the electoral process. This includes the use of mobile applications for voter registration and information dissemination, as well as the implementation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems to ensure transparency and accuracy in voting. The ECI has also been proactive in addressing issues related to voter turnout, particularly among marginalized communities and in remote areas.
Initiatives such as special camps, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with civil society organizations have been undertaken to improve voter registration and participation. The debate around electoral reforms, including the introduction of postal ballots for all voters and the use of blockchain technology for voting, is ongoing.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Election Commission of India (ECI): 1. The ECI is a constitutional body established under Article 324 of the Constitution. 2. The Chief Election Commissioner can be removed from office in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court. 3. The ECI is responsible for conducting elections to the offices of the President and Vice-President of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. Article 324 establishes the ECI. The CEC's removal process is similar to that of a Supreme Court judge. The ECI conducts elections for President and Vice-President.
2. Which of the following is NOT a function of the Election Commission of India?
- A.To prepare and maintain electoral rolls
- B.To conduct elections to Parliament and State Legislatures
- C.To adjudicate election disputes
- D.To delimit constituencies
Show Answer
Answer: C
The ECI conducts elections and delimits constituencies, but election disputes are adjudicated by the courts.
3. In the context of electoral roll revision, what does the term 'Special Intensive Revision (SIR)' typically refer to?
- A.A complete overhaul of the electoral system
- B.A focused effort to address specific issues or gaps in the electoral rolls
- C.A process of verifying the identity of all voters using biometric data
- D.A campaign to promote voter awareness and participation
Show Answer
Answer: B
SIR is a focused effort to address specific issues or gaps in the electoral rolls, often targeting areas with known discrepancies or low voter turnout.
4. Consider the following statements: 1. The Representation of the People Act, 1950 deals with the allocation of seats and delimitation of constituencies for elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies. 2. The Representation of the People Act, 1951 lays down the actual conduct of elections, and qualifications and disqualifications for membership of Parliament and State Legislatures. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.2 only
- C.Both 1 and 2
- D.Neither 1 nor 2
Show Answer
Answer: C
Both statements are correct. The 1950 Act deals with seat allocation and delimitation, while the 1951 Act deals with the conduct of elections and qualifications/disqualifications.