“Why Only West Bengal?” Amit Shah Questions SIR Disruptions

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday questioned why West Bengal emerged as the only state where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise encountered significant obstacles. He urged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to clarify the reasons behind these disruptions.

Shah stated that authorities completed the revision exercise smoothly in 14 states, including opposition-ruled regions such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala. He noted that only West Bengal witnessed persistent challenges, compelling the Supreme Court of India to intervene and order judicial adjudication.

The Minister attributed the issue to alleged bias among district magistrates in the state.

Addressing the media during the release of a ‘White Paper’ against the ruling Trinamool Congress, Shah criticised the state government for opposing actions by the Election Commission of India. He said that transfers of officials before elections occur nationwide, but West Bengal experiences higher transfers due to alleged political influence over administration.

The Union Home Minister added that reduced violence during Ram Navami this year reflected administrative changes.

Shah further alleged that the ruling party resisted the SIR exercise to retain illegal infiltrators on electoral rolls for political advantage. He asserted that such efforts would not succeed.

The Home Minister also accused Banerjee of employing sympathy-driven tactics ahead of elections. He dismissed her claims that Bengalis face threats within India, describing them as politically motivated.

Shah emphasised that the government remains committed to identifying illegal entrants from Bangladesh and ensuring their removal, while assuring citizens that genuine residents have no cause for concern.

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