In a clear decision underscoring adherence to prescribed norms, the Election Commission of India has declined West Bengal’s request to include the Madhyamik (Class 10) admit card as an acceptable document for voter verification during the upcoming Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
The Commission conveyed its decision to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal through an official communication issued on January 15. The letter, signed by the ECI’s Under Secretary, stated that while the proposal had been carefully examined, it could not be approved under the existing framework governing the SIR process.
According to official sources, the proposal was forwarded by state election authorities earlier this month, citing practical considerations during field-level verification. The state sought permission to allow the Class 10 admit card, widely held by residents, as a supporting document for identity and age verification during the door-to-door revision exercise.
However, the ECI maintained that any deviation from the notified list of documents would require a formal amendment of guidelines, which was not considered necessary or appropriate at this stage.
The Commission referred to its detailed instructions issued on October 27, 2025, which specify the documents that can be accepted for verification during the SIR exercise in West Bengal. These include government-issued identity and address proofs such as Aadhaar, EPIC, ration cards, and other notified documents.
The Madhyamik admit card does not feature in this approved list. Emphasising this point, the ECI stated that election officials are bound to follow the notified norms strictly to ensure uniformity, transparency, and legal robustness in the electoral roll revision process.
“In view of the above, the Commission is of the opinion that the proposal to accept the Madhyamik (Class X) Admit Card as a valid document cannot be acceded to,” the letter said.
Sources in the Election Commission indicated that allowing additional documents outside the approved list could lead to inconsistencies in verification practices and raise questions about the sanctity of the electoral rolls. The SIR exercise is considered a critical mechanism to remove duplications, correct errors, and ensure that only eligible voters are enrolled.
The ECI has repeatedly stressed that strict adherence to guidelines is essential, especially in politically sensitive states and ahead of major electoral exercises.
The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in West Bengal is scheduled as part of preparations ahead of upcoming elections. The process involves a comprehensive verification of voters at the ground level, often involving house-to-house visits by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
Given the scale and sensitivity of the exercise, the ECI’s decision signals its intent to avoid ambiguity and maintain a uniform standard across the state.
With the Commission’s rejection, the list of acceptable documents for voter verification during SIR 2026 in West Bengal remains unchanged. State election officials have been advised to proceed strictly in accordance with the October 27, 2025 guidelines.
