Election Commission of India (ECI) officials revealed Tuesday a recalibrated roadmap for West Bengal’s voter registration, delaying the final list release to February 28 to accommodate rigorous checks. This ensures the voter database is robust for upcoming assembly elections.
Key milestones include wrapping up claims and objections hearings by February 14, document reviews by February 21, polling station streamlining by February 25, and safety evaluations by February 27.
The update stems from a New Delhi meeting between Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal and the ECI’s full commission. It aligns with a Supreme Court order from a bench headed by CJI Suryakant, granting registration officers an extra week post-February 14 for comprehensive adjudication.
Earlier plans targeted February 7 for hearing closures and February 14 for list publication. The extension prioritizes accuracy over speed, vital in a politically charged state like West Bengal.
After rollout, the ECI team will visit the state for a firsthand status check, leading to election date notifications. This methodical approach highlights the Commission’s dedication to fair play, setting a precedent for electoral readiness nationwide.