Tensions Rise Outside Election Commission Office in Kolkata Amid SIR Protests
Tensions escalated outside the Election Commission office in Kolkata late Monday as BJP and TMC supporters clashed over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Allegations of tampering and concerns about the rapid pace of the SIR process have emerged, with claims that it is being rushed to completion in just two months. The health of BLOs has also come under scrutiny, with reports of illness and fatalities. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Election Commission for its handling of the situation, while the Chief Electoral Officer acknowledged the challenges faced by BLOs. This unfolding situation raises significant questions about the electoral process in West Bengal.
| Nov 25, 2025, 22:50 IST
Protests Erupt Over SIR Process
Late Monday night, the atmosphere outside the main office of the Election Commission in Kolkata turned tense as supporters from the BJP and Trinamool Congress clashed. Reports indicate that the confrontation arose over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, prompting police to quickly set up barricades to manage the situation.
Accusations of Tampering
The SIR process is currently underway across West Bengal, leading to a significant gathering of protesters at the election office's main entrance. Tamoghna Ghosh, the BJP's North Kolkata district president, alleged in an interview that TMC members attempted to interfere with the revision process at night. He stated, “These individuals are not BLOs; they are goons who came here to create chaos at midnight, and we have stopped them.”
Concerns Over SIR Process Speed
Meanwhile, a teacher from Murshidabad claimed that the entire SIR process, which typically spans two years, is being rushed to completion in just two months. He asserted, “In Bihar, millions were removed from the voter list, and a similar plot is unfolding here.” He warned that thousands of BLOs are prepared to withdraw if their concerns are ignored.
Health Issues Among BLOs
Earlier on Monday, protests were also held outside the Election Commission office due to the increasing workload on BLOs. Media reports indicate that several BLOs have fallen ill, and at least three deaths have occurred since the counting began on November 4. Two of these deaths are reported as suicides, while one is under investigation for suspicious circumstances.
Chief Minister's Criticism
In light of these events, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Election Commission for its “hasty and unplanned implementation” of the SIR process. She argued that conducting the revision at such a rapid pace is inappropriate and is placing immense pressure on the BLOs.
Acknowledgment of BLO Challenges
Considering the situation, West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal acknowledged the difficulties faced by BLOs, stating they are “working under very challenging conditions” that are affecting their health. He mentioned that district officials have been instructed to assist BLOs, and police and post-mortem reports have been requested from districts where deaths occurred. He also emphasized that BLOs are “doing their best” and are the “real heroes” of this entire process.