Governor Bose backs judicial oversight in Bengal's SIR process amid row

In a wide-ranging interview with NewsX and The Daily Guardian, West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose defended the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, emphasising the Supreme Court's intervention as a safeguard for fairness while steering clear of political rhetoric.

- SUPROTIM MUKHERJEE

Governor of West Bengal C. V. Ananda Bose.

Responding to questions on the SIR process, mandated by the Election Commission in West Bengal — the only state facing such scrutiny — Bose described it as “an inevitable process in a democracy” that “must ultimately reflect the truth”. He acknowledged potential shortcomings but expressed confidence in judicial oversight, noting: “The Supreme Court has now intervened, so we must wait and watch. The final outcome will make matters clear.”

The Supreme Court recently directed judicial supervision alongside Election Commission officials to address complaints and grievances, a move prompted by objections from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has challenged the process in court.