A fresh political and administrative controversy has emerged in West Bengal after the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) formally raised objections over discrepancies in the state’s electoral roll data. In a detailed letter addressed to the Chief Electoral Officer, the party highlighted gaps in voter figures and alleged non-compliance with Supreme Court directions, calling for immediate corrective action to restore transparency and public trust. Chandrima Bhattacharya, Partha Bhowmick and Mohua Maitra submitted the letter to the Election Commission of India.

Discrepancy in voter numbers raises concern

The TMC pointed out a significant mismatch in the total number of electors reported by the Election Commission of India. According to the letter, the Commission’s notification dated March 15, 2026, stated that West Bengal has 6,44,52,609 voters. However, the party argued that the final electoral roll published on February 28, 2026, had recorded a much higher figure of 7,04,59,284 electors. The difference, the party claimed, is due to nearly 60 lakh voters being placed under adjudication. These voters are currently under verification by designated judicial officers, and their names should remain in the rolls until a final decision is made. Presenting a reduced figure without proper clarification, the TMC said, creates confusion and weakens public confidence in the electoral process.

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Delay in supplementary rolls questioned

The party also raised concerns over the non-publication of supplementary electoral rolls. As per Supreme Court directions, updated lists reflecting changes after verification should be released regularly. However, the TMC noted that even after verification of around 15 lakh voters, no updated rolls have been published so far.

This delay, the party argued, leaves voters uncertain about their status and limits their ability to seek legal remedies. Without access to updated lists, affected individuals cannot approach appellate tribunals to restore or confirm their inclusion in the rolls. In its letter, the TMC demanded a fresh notification with accurate voter figures, immediate publication of supplementary rolls, and timely operationalisation of appellate tribunals to address grievances.

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Calling the issue critical to the integrity of elections, the party urged authorities to act swiftly. It stressed that transparency and accuracy in electoral rolls are essential to ensure that every eligible citizen can exercise their democratic right without confusion or obstruction.