West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee has written a detailed letter to the Election Commission of India (ECI), raising serious objections over alleged irregularities in voter list revisions and warning of potential violations of constitutional and statutory provisions.
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In her communication addressed to the Chief Election Commissioner, Banerjee argued that under Article 324 of the Constitution, the ECI cannot introduce provisions that contradict the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960. She stressed that when statutory rules already govern a field, the Commission “cannot make such provisions” arbitrarily, especially in light of directives issued by the Supreme Court of India.
Banerjee described the ongoing “Special Intensive Revision” process as “flawed and seemingly targeted,” claiming it has caused “severe hardship to millions” and pushed many towards disenfranchisement. The letter also mentions that “over 200 people have reportedly lost their lives in this process,” calling the situation deeply distressing and urging the ECI to adopt a more humane and responsive approach.
Form 6 violations
She further alleged a coordinated attempt involving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to interfere with democratic rights, claiming that large numbers of Form 6 applications are being submitted by party agents across districts. According to the letter, these applications are not routine but may be aimed at including non-residents in the electoral rolls.
Banerjee also challenged a memo which allows additions through Form 6 and modifications via Form 8 until the last date of nomination. She argued that such provisions are “absolutely illegal and unfair,” as they contradict both Supreme Court orders and the statutory framework of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960.
“These provisions are intended for limited purposes, primarily benefiting prospective candidates, and cannot be invoked for bulk consideration of applications,” the letter states.
Legal Objections to Bulk Inclusion Applications
Citing the Supreme Court’s order dated February 20, 2026, Banerjee highlighted that claims and objections related to voter lists must be adjudicated by judicial officers. The letter notes that nearly 60 lakh cases have already been placed under adjudication following the publication of the final voter list on February 28, 2026.
She warned that allowing approximately 30,000 additional Form 6 applications during this adjudication phase—reportedly received by the Chief Electoral Officer—would be “totally illegal” and beyond the scope of the apex court’s directions. The letter explicitly urges the ECI not to entertain any such applications after the final electoral roll publication date.
Call for Immediate ECI Intervention
The Chief Minister concluded by urging the Election Commission to take cognizance of “ground realities” and intervene decisively to protect democratic rights. She emphasized that any action undermining voter integrity would erode public trust and violate constitutional safeguards.
