A bench led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) asked the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court to appoint serving and former judicial officers of the rank of District Judges or Additional District Judges to adjudicate pending claims and objections related to inclusion and exclusion in the voter list, particularly for cases involving “logical discrepancies.”
The Supreme Court directed West Bengal district collectors and police superintendents to provide logistical support and security to the judicial officers involved in the SIR process. It also permitted the Election Commission to publish the draft list of voters in Bengal on February 28, while noting that a supplementary list could be issued later.
The court emphasised that “orders passed by judicial officers will be deemed as orders of court,” instructing local authorities to comply fully.
Noting the State government’s reluctance to spare sufficient Grade ‘A’ officers for the revision exercise, the bench asked the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice to hold a meeting with key stakeholders, including the Chief Secretary, DGP, and officials from the Election Commission, to ensure smooth conduct of the SIR.
Serving and former judicial officers will now decide on claims and objections for individuals listed under the “logical discrepancy” category, a move aimed at expediting the Special Intensive Revision.
