SIR: The Supreme Court of India referring to Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in West Bengal has warned that anarchy would not be tolerated. The remark came as SC sought responses from the Election Commission of India (ECI and the Center.
The notice was issued by a SC bench including Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymala Bagchi on a plea that cited the poor track record of West Bengal on poll-related violence. The plea also sought Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) protection for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) engaged in SIR preparation.
What had the ECI said?
The ECI had informed the top court that it cannot address the issue without placing local police under deputation in West Bengal. It was also reported by the ECI that its office of the electoral officer and district electoral officer had recently been “gheraoed.”
CJI maintained that anarchy could not be permitted in any part of the country. He added that the ECI must act strictly against any form of violence targeting BLOs.
What did the bench remarked?
The bench remarked the state government must cooperate fully with the SIR of electoral rolls. It was added that we want to ensure that SIR is done on the ground without any glitches. The bench said instances of lack of cooperation and hindrances to the work of BLOs must be immediately brought to its notice, and it will pass appropriate orders.
Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi said the Election Commission has all constitutional power to deal with instances of BLOs and other officials engaged in SIR work being threatened.
