SC sets one-day deadline for Bengal voter list review

The Supreme Court has given a strict one-day deadline to complete the revision of the voter list in West Bengal ahead of elections, as per reports. This decision comes after rising concerns about voter deletions and objections in the state. The court has reportedly asked the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) tribunals to recheck all records carefully to ensure the process is fair and transparent.

In its order, the apex court reportedly said that tribunals must go through all documents again, including the reasons given by judicial officers, so that there is no confusion or doubt. It also directed that all parties should be given a fair hearing. The judges clearly said that all pending work related to claims and objections must be finished within the same day without any delay.

CJI Surya Kant also mentioned that central forces will not be removed from West Bengal, considering past situations, as per reports. He added that if the state machinery fails to handle the situation properly, the court will step in and take necessary action.

The court reportedly referred to a letter from the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, which stated that out of around 60 lakh cases, nearly 59 lakh claims and objections had already been decided by April 6.​

To make the process smoother and more uniform, the Supreme Court has reportedly asked the Calcutta High Court to form a panel of three former senior judges. This panel will help set proper guidelines for the tribunals.

The court has also instructed the Election Commission of India to publish the final updated voter list by April 7, especially if any digital signature work is still pending .

​