Bengal's Election Controversy: Shami, Dev, and More Summoned

In a significant political development in West Bengal, cricketer Mohammad Shami, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Dev, and eminent poet Joy Goswami have been summoned by the Election Commission of India for a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing. This hearing is part of a larger effort by the Election Commission to ensure voters are accurately linked to the electoral rolls, specifically referencing the 2002 electoral roll.

The notices were issued from Kartju Nagar School in Jadavpur, Kolkata, where Shami, a voter in Ward No. 93, is expected to appear for the hearing scheduled between January 9 and 11. Due to his commitments in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shami was unable to attend the initial hearing but has expressed his willingness to participate at a later date.

Dev, a well-known actor and three-time MP from Ghatal, is also facing scrutiny along with three family members who received similar notices. The TMC has denounced these actions as harassment, suggesting that targeting prominent party members is a politically motivated move. Dev, who transitioned from acting to politics, has made a significant impact in both fields.

In addition to Shami and Dev, the Election Commission has summoned several other cultural figures, including popular Bengali actors and poets. The SIR instructions issued on October 27 require voters to verify their eligibility by linking themselves or family members to the electoral roll from 2002. This requirement has raised concerns, leading to the deletion of over 58 lakh voters from the list due to various reasons, including death and migration.

The political atmosphere in Bengal has become increasingly charged as the state prepares for upcoming elections. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced strong opposition to the SIR process, labeling it as "inhumane" and indicating her intention to challenge it in court. The TMC has been vocal about their concerns, arguing that the Election Commission has not adequately addressed the issues raised by the party regarding the SIR of electoral rolls.

As tensions rise and the political landscape evolves, the unfolding events surrounding the SIR hearings will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the electoral dynamics in West Bengal. The actions of the Election Commission and the responses from political leaders will be closely watched as the state approaches a pivotal election period.