Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suffered a major setback in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) matter, as the Supreme Court made it clear that the process will not be stayed and no state will be allowed to obstruct it.
No Stay on SIR, Court Clears Election Process
The Supreme Court stated firmly that SIR will continue without interruption. The bench noted that no state government can be permitted to interfere with the voter revision exercise.
Notice to Bengal DGP Over Officials’ Security
Chief Justice Suryakant issued a notice to the West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) regarding the security of election officials, highlighting concerns over their protection during the process.
Group-B Officials to Be Deployed as Micro-Observers
The court directed the Mamata Banerjee government to ensure the presence of 8,555 Group-B officers before District Election Officers (DEOs). These officials will be deployed as micro-observers and will assist the Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) in carrying out the revision exercise.
ECI Given Power to Change or Continue EROs and AEROs
In an important decision, the Supreme Court granted discretion to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to either replace the existing EROs and AEROs or continue their services as needed.
One-Week Extra Time Granted After February 14
To implement the new arrangements smoothly, the Supreme Court allowed an additional one week after February 14. The court also made it mandatory to verify the identity and biodata of officials to ensure transparency in the election process.
