Mamata Accuses Election Commission of Bias, Cites SIR Deaths
Mamata Banerjee accuses Election Commission of favoring BJP, alleges SIR-related deaths.
Photo by Chad Stembridge
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Election Commission (EC) on 26 January 2026 of working on behalf of the BJP and “torturing people” through the special intensive revision (SIR) process. She alleged that over 130 people have died due to stress caused by SIR, which she likened to an NRC trial targeting minorities and Scheduled Castes/Tribes.
Banerjee criticized the EC for summoning elderly and physically challenged individuals to prove their credentials. The Trinamool Congress held protests against SIR across the state, and Minister Shashi Panja appeared for an SIR hearing.
Key Facts
Mamata: EC working for BJP, torturing people
SIR: Special Intensive Revision
Deaths: 130+ due to SIR stress
TMC protests: Against SIR across West Bengal
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Election Commission, electoral reforms
Constitutional provisions related to elections
Potential questions on the role and functions of the Election Commission
Visual Insights
Areas of SIR Protests in West Bengal (January 2026)
Map showing the districts in West Bengal where Trinamool Congress held protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, alleging bias by the Election Commission.
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More Information
Background
The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established on 25th January 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 had only one Election Commissioner.
However, after the Election Commissioner Amendment Act of 1989, the ECI became a multi-member body, comprising a Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners. The evolution of the ECI reflects the growing complexity of the electoral process and the need for greater oversight and management of elections in a diverse and populous country like India. Over the years, the ECI has introduced various reforms to enhance transparency, prevent electoral malpractices, and increase voter participation.
Latest Developments
In recent years, the Election Commission has focused on leveraging technology to improve the electoral process. This includes the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems to enhance transparency and voter confidence. The ECI has also been actively working to increase voter awareness and participation, especially among marginalized communities and first-time voters.
The introduction of initiatives like the Electoral Bond scheme and debates surrounding its impact on political funding transparency have also been significant developments. Furthermore, discussions on electoral reforms, such as simultaneous elections and state funding of elections, continue to be relevant in shaping the future of India's electoral landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is SIR (Special Intensive Revision) as mentioned in the news, and why is it important in the context of the Election Commission?
SIR, or Special Intensive Revision, is a process mentioned in the news where the Election Commission is conducting revisions. It is important because Mamata Banerjee has accused the EC of using it to target minorities and Scheduled Castes/Tribes, leading to protests and allegations of deaths due to stress.
2. According to Mamata Banerjee, what are the key issues with the Election Commission's actions and the SIR process?
Mamata Banerjee accuses the Election Commission of bias towards the BJP and of 'torturing people' through the SIR process. She alleges that over 130 people have died due to stress caused by SIR, which she likens to an NRC trial targeting minorities and Scheduled Castes/Tribes. She also criticizes the EC for summoning elderly and physically challenged individuals.
3. What is the constitutional basis for the Election Commission of India, and why is its independence important?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is established under Article 324 of the Constitution. Its independence is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections, which are fundamental to a democratic system. The ECI's role is to conduct elections without bias or influence from any political party or the government.
4. What are the recent developments related to the Election Commission of India?
Recent developments include leveraging technology like EVMs and VVPAT to improve transparency and voter confidence. The ECI has also been actively working to increase voter awareness and participation, especially among marginalized communities.
5. How might the accusations against the Election Commission impact its credibility and the electoral process?
Accusations of bias can undermine public trust in the Election Commission, potentially leading to decreased voter turnout and challenges to election results. Maintaining impartiality is crucial for the ECI to ensure fair and credible elections.
6. What are the key dates and figures to remember from this news article for the UPSC exam?
Key dates include January 26, 2026, when Mamata Banerjee made the accusations. The key figure to remember is 130+, representing the alleged deaths due to stress from the SIR process.
7. What are the potential implications of comparing the SIR process to an NRC trial, as alleged by Mamata Banerjee?
Comparing SIR to an NRC trial suggests that the process is being used to target specific communities and potentially disenfranchise them. This comparison raises concerns about discrimination and the fairness of the electoral process.
8. Why is this news about accusations against the Election Commission categorized under 'Polity & Governance'?
This news falls under 'Polity & Governance' because it directly relates to the functioning of a key constitutional body (the Election Commission) and its role in ensuring fair elections, which is a fundamental aspect of governance.
9. From an ethical standpoint, how should the Election Commission respond to these accusations to maintain public trust?
The Election Commission should respond transparently and impartially, addressing the specific concerns raised and providing evidence to demonstrate the fairness and integrity of the SIR process. Open communication and willingness to investigate allegations are crucial.
10. What is the significance of Trinamool Congress (TMC) protesting against SIR across West Bengal?
The TMC protests highlight the political opposition to the SIR process and indicate the potential for widespread discontent and disruption related to the electoral process in West Bengal. It shows the issue has significant political ramifications.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Election Commission of India (ECI): 1. The ECI is a multi-member body since its inception. 2. Article 324 of the Constitution provides for the establishment of the ECI. 3. The Election Commissioner Amendment Act of 1989 made the ECI a multi-member body. 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: B
Statement 1 is INCORRECT: Initially, the ECI had only one Election Commissioner. It became a multi-member body after the Election Commissioner Amendment Act of 1989. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Article 324 of the Constitution provides for an independent and autonomous Election Commission. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The Election Commissioner Amendment Act of 1989 made the ECI a multi-member body, comprising a Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners.
2. In the context of allegations against the Election Commission, which of the following measures can strengthen its independence and impartiality? 1. Providing constitutional protection to all Election Commissioners. 2. Making the appointment process of Election Commissioners more transparent and participatory. 3. Ensuring financial autonomy of the Election Commission. 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 the statements are correct. Providing constitutional protection, making the appointment process transparent, and ensuring financial autonomy can enhance the independence and impartiality of the Election Commission. These measures can reduce the potential for executive interference and increase public trust in the electoral process.
3. Which of the following is NOT a function of the Election Commission of India?
- A.To determine the constituencies' boundaries.
- B.To prepare and periodically revise electoral rolls.
- C.To conduct elections to the Parliament and State Legislatures.
- D.To advise the President on matters related to disqualification of MPs.
Show Answer
Answer: D
The Election Commission does not advise the President on matters related to the disqualification of MPs. This function is performed by the President in consultation with the Election Commission, as per Article 103 of the Constitution. The ECI's role is to provide its opinion, but the final decision rests with the President.