Supreme Court Takes Up Voter List Controversy in West Bengal

The Supreme Court has stepped into the ongoing political turmoil in West Bengal regarding the voter list. With new petitions allowed from Mamata Banerjee and others, the case centers on the removal of votes during the Special Intensive Revision and narrow victory margins in assembly elections. The Election Commission has stated that election petitions are the correct legal path for resolving these disputes. This situation could significantly impact the electoral landscape in West Bengal, reigniting debates over voter list transparency and integrity.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 00:22 IST

Political Turmoil Over Voter List in West Bengal

The political conflict regarding the voter list in West Bengal has escalated to the Supreme Court. A new legal battle is set to unfold concerning the removal of votes during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list and the narrow margins of victory in assembly seats. The Supreme Court has granted permission to Mamata Banerjee and other petitioners to file new petitions.

Concerns Raised Over 31 Assembly Seats

During the hearing, TMC MP and senior lawyer Kalyan Banerjee asserted in court that the margin of victory in 31 assembly seats was less than the number of votes removed during the revision process. This argument has intensified the situation.

Election Commission's Stance

The Election Commission clarified in the Supreme Court that election petitions are the appropriate legal avenue for resolving such disputes. They acknowledged their responsibility regarding matters related to adding or removing votes and confirmed that an appeal process is available.

Supreme Court's Decision

After hearing arguments from all parties, the bench comprising Chief Justice Suryakant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi allowed the filing of new petitions. This development is expected to reignite discussions on the voter list and transparency in West Bengal's electoral politics.