Actor, director and singer Anirban Bhattacharya is set to be summoned for a hearing as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. According to Election Commission sources, Bhattacharya failed to mention any linkage to the 2002 voter list while filling up his enumeration form, prompting officials to call him for verification.
Ironically, the situation mirrors lyrics from a recent satirical song by the collective Hooliganism, of which Anirban is a prominent member, where repeated references are made to “showing documents” during verification. What once appeared as commentary has now taken an unexpectedly literal turn.
Also Read | Floral tribute controversy at Burdwan University raises questions on tradition and intent
The first phase of the SIR process has recently concluded. During scrutiny, officials found that Bhattacharya’s enumeration form lacked any reference to the 2002 electoral roll. As a result, he has been asked to appear in person with supporting documents at a hearing scheduled for early January.
Responding to the development, Bhattacharya said, “My name is already on the voter list. Still, if I’m called for a hearing, I will definitely attend and submit all required documents.”
Born on October 7, 1986, in Midnapore, Bhattacharya’s ancestral home is in Saratpally in the town. He currently lives in Garia, Kolkata, with his mother and sister. Despite this, his name continues to appear on the voter list of Midnapore town, where he is registered as a voter in Booth No. 299 under Ward No. 23.
A Booth Level Officer had visited his Saratpally residence with the enumeration form, which the actor duly filled. However, records show that neither Bhattacharya nor his parents or grandparents were listed in the 2002 voter rolls, though all their names appear in the 2025 list. His father, Pradyot Kumar Bhattacharya, passed away on July 6 this year due to a cardiac arrest at the Garia residence.
Family says documents are in place
Anirban’s uncle, Vidyut Bhattacharya, said he was unsure why his brother’s name was not enrolled in 2002. “At that time, our parents—Anirban’s grandparents, had also passed away, which may explain their absence. I checked voter lists of three local booths but couldn’t find my brother’s name. However, my own name appears clearly in the 2002 roll,” he said.
Also Read | Jangalmahal’s veteran Left leader, former state minister Upendra Kisku passes away
He added that the family possesses multiple documents, including Anirban’s passport, and is prepared to submit whatever the Commission asks for. “We are original residents of the area. I’ve already spoken to the BLO. There is no cause for worry,” he said.
Bhattacharya echoed the sentiment, saying that if summoned, the entire family would attend the hearing together.
