The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal is being carried out under strict supervision, with the Election Commission of India (ECI) introducing an additional layer of scrutiny by deploying central government officials as micro-observers. The move is aimed at ensuring transparency, accuracy, and fairness in the voter list revision process.

According to Election Commission officials, the scrutiny of forms submitted by voters across the state is currently underway and is being conducted with extreme caution. Under the new monitoring mechanism, Group B and above officers from central government services are being empanelled to act as micro-observers during the SIR process.

An official from the Chief Electoral Officer’s (CEO) office said that a dedicated database of eligible officers is being prepared for this purpose. “These micro-observers will digitally verify the forms uploaded by Booth Level Officers (BLOs), cross-check documents submitted by voters, and closely observe the hearing proceedings to detect any irregularities,” the official said.

Role and Responsibilities of Micro-Observers

The CEO’s office clarified that the appointed micro-observers will work in coordination with Electoral Roll Observers and Special Electoral Roll Observers. Their responsibilities will include monitoring verification procedures, ensuring proper documentation, and reporting any deviations from prescribed norms.

To facilitate their work, District Magistrates have been instructed to provide full logistical support, including accommodation, transport, and security arrangements. The Election Commission has also confirmed that these officers will receive appropriate remuneration for their special duty, which is expected to continue until February 16.

Deployment to Begin Soon

Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal stated that the micro-observers would start arriving in West Bengal shortly. While he did not specify the exact number of officers to be deployed, he said the details would be made public at an appropriate time.

“Micro-observers will come to West Bengal in multiple phases and begin their work within this month,” Agarwal said. Another senior official added that these observers would also be present during hearings scheduled after Christmas.

Sources indicated that around 3,000 micro-observers may ultimately be deployed across the state to oversee various stages of the SIR process.