The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday directed the Kolkata Police to immediately enhance security measures for the officers and staff of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) in West Bengal.
This directive follows a “serious security breach” that occurred at the CEO’s office on November 24, 2025, which was widely reported in the media. The ECI expressed concern that the existing security was “inadequate” to handle the situation, posing a threat to the safety of the CEO, other electoral officers, and staff.
ECI’s Directives to Kolkata Police
The ECI’s letter instructed the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, to take action within 48 hours to:
- Ensure the safety and security of CEO’s office personnel at their residences and while commuting.
- Conduct adequate security classification due to the sensitivity involved with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) activities and the forthcoming state elections.
- Ensure that no untoward incident occurs again and submit an action taken report within 48 hours.
Protests Over Electoral Roll Revision (SIR)
The security breach coincided with escalating tensions and a major protest outside the Election Commission office in Kolkata on Tuesday (November 25, 2025).
- Protesters: The demonstration primarily consisted of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and teachers supporting them, protesting the accelerated pace of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.
- Concerns: Protesters claimed the SIR process, which normally takes two years in West Bengal, is being conducted within two months. They feared a “conspiracy” similar to the alleged deletion of millions of voters in Bihar.
- Political Allegations:
- BJP North Kolkata District President Tamoghna Ghosh alleged that some individuals attempting to enter the office were “TMC goons” intending to commit hooliganism and tampering.
- Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the BJP-led Union Government, alleging that “confrontation” has already started ahead of the state elections, even claiming she was denied permission to use a government helicopter for her rally. She stressed that while her government does not oppose SIR, genuine voters must not be removed.
The ECI is conducting the second phase of the SIR of electoral rolls across 12 states and Union Territories, with the final voter list scheduled for publication on February 7, 2026.