The Supreme Court has raised serious concerns over the special intensive revision of electoral rolls in West Bengal, especially the exclusion of large numbers of voters close to the Assembly election. The court stressed that the right to be on the electoral roll and to vote is both a constitutional guarantee and a matter of democratic sentiment. It noted that lakhs of voters had been removed on the basis of logical discrepancies, triggering a large-scale appeal process before the polls.
Supreme Court’s Observations
The Bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, said voting is the biggest expression of nationality and participation in democracy. It questioned the fairness of excluding voters through a process that appeared to depart from the original terms of the special intensive revision.
Issue of Logical Discrepancy
The court pointed out that no other State had a category described as logical discrepancy in the voter revision process. It noted that the original notification had said the 2002 electoral roll would be the benchmark and would not be disturbed. The court said introducing such a category altered that understanding and affected voter rights.
Appeals and Election Timing
Around 34 lakh appeals have been filed by voters removed from the West Bengal roll, with more than one lakh appeals pending before each of 19 appellate tribunals. The court said the process was taking place very close to the election date, creating an uncertain atmosphere. It emphasised that the appeal mechanism must be robust and not hurried.
Due Process and Electoral Fairness
The court said the Election Commission’s action was unilateral and required stronger safeguards for affected voters. It underlined that verification of identity documents should not replace a meaningful hearing. The Bench said the judicial process must protect due process rights and ensure that eligible citizens are not denied their right to vote.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026