The Election Commission of India just released the draft electoral roll for West Bengal’s 2026 elections. That’s a big step in the Special Intensive Revision—SIR, if you want the shorthand. If you’re wondering what all this means, you’re in the right place. Here’s a clear look at what’s in the draft voters list, some important stats, why some names get deleted, and what you need to do if your name’s missing or needs fixing.

SIR is honestly one of the biggest voter list clean-ups India does. The whole idea is to make sure every eligible voter gets on the list, and to weed out any duplicates or mistakes.

So, what’s this Special Intensive Revision all about? The SIR is a massive update of the voter roll, run by the Election Commission of India. It’s backed by Article 324 of the Constitution and Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The main goal? Include every eligible citizen, keep the list accurate, and remove anyone who shouldn’t be there.


  • Ensure all eligible Indian citizens are included in the electoral roll
  • Remove ineligible voters from the voter list
  • Eliminate duplicate entries and fraudulent registrations
  • Update voter information with current residential addresses
  • Maintain the integrity and accuracy of the electoral process
  • Facilitate transparent and fair elections

 On October 27, 2025, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stood up and announced the nationwide SIR process. Phase II? That’s huge—about 510 million voters across 9 states and 3 union territories. We’re talking 321 districts and 1,843 assembly constituencies all in.

Let’s back up a bit. India’s revised its electoral rolls 13 times since independence. The list goes from the early 1950s, then 1957, 1961, ’65, ’66, then a jump to the ’80s, and so on—1983-84, 1987-89, 1992, 1993, 1995, 2002, 2003, and 2004. But this SIR for 2025-26? It’s the biggest, most tech-driven update yet.

Now, about West Bengal. In the first phase of the SIR, the state saw record numbers of voters included and a level of digitization that’s never happened before.

  • Total voters covered: 7 crore 66 lakh 37 thousand 529 (76,637,529)
  • Enumeration Forms digitized: 7 crore 8 lakh 16 thousand 616 (70,816,616)
  • Digitization percentage: 92.4% of all enumeration forms processed
  • Expected final publication date: February 14, 2026

 These numbers show how serious the Election Commission is about bringing elections into the digital age—and making sure everyone who’s eligible gets their say.

Voter Deletion Analysis

With the SIR process, they found and removed a huge chunk of entries that just didn’t fit the rules for voter eligibility.

Here’s a look at the types of voters they deleted (58 lakh+ deletions):

  • Absent voters: Citizens who could not be located at their registered addresses
  • Shifted voters: Individuals who have moved to different constituencies or states
  • Deceased voters: Entries of citizens who have passed away
  • Duplicate voters: Multiple registrations under the same person's name

Pending cases requiring verification:

  • Unmapped voters: 31 lakh 38 thousand 374 voters not matched with the 2025 electoral roll
  • Hearing period: January 14, 2026 to February 7, 2026
  • Status: These voters will be called for official hearings to verify eligibility and update their information

 Getting rid of inaccurate or duplicate entries makes the electoral process more trustworthy and stops problems like fraud or mismanagement before they start.


Where to Find the West Bengal Draft Electoral Roll 2026

You’ve got options if you want to check whether your name’s on the draft electoral roll in West Bengal. There are plenty of easy ways to do it:

Online platforms:

  1. voters.eci.gov.in - Official Election Commission voter portal with search functionality
  2. ECINET mobile application - Dedicated app for voter information access
  3. CEO West Bengal website - State-level election commission website
  4. District websites - Direct access through respective district portals

Offline Locations:

  1. Election Commission offices - Regional ECI headquarters
  2. Block Development Officer (BDO) offices - Local administrative centers
  3. Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) offices - Regional government offices
  4. District Magistrate (DM) offices - District administrative headquarters
  5. Local government offices - Gram panchayat and municipal corporation offices

 The multi-channel access system makes it easy for everyone to check their voter status, no matter their internet skills or whether they’re online at all.


How to Register or Fix Your Name: The Form 6 Process  

Who Needs to Fill Out Form 6?  

Form 6 is the standard form for voter registration and is meant for:

  • First-time voters registering for the first time
  • Missing names not appearing in the draft electoral roll
  • Address updates for voters who have relocated
  • Name corrections for spelling errors or variations
  • Family member additions for eligible household members

Step-by-Step Online Form 6 Registration Process

Steps to apply online through voters.eci.gov.in:

  1. Visit the National Voters Service Portal
  2. Create Your Account
    • Click on "Sign-up" or create a new account
    • Enter your mobile number and email address
    • Verify through OTP (One-Time Password)
  3. Select Form 6 Option
    • Log in to your registered account
    • Click on "Forms" section
    • Select "Fill Form 6" button
  4. Fill in Personal Information
    • State, District, and Parliamentary Constituency
    • Full name and gender
    • Date of birth
    • Guardian or family member details
    • Residential address with postal details
  5. Upload Required Documents
    • Passport-sized photograph (digital copy)
    • Identity proof (Aadhaar, Passport, or Driving License)
    • Address proof (Ration card, utility bill, or lease agreement)
    • Date of birth document (Birth certificate or school mark sheet)
  6. Submit Application
    • Review all entered information
    • Click "Preview and Submit"
    • Receive acknowledgment number for tracking
  7. Track Application Status
    • Use acknowledgment number on voters.eci.gov.in
    • Check status through ECINET app
    • Receive SMS/email updates on application progress

Average processing time: 30-45 days from submission


Offline Form 6 Registration Method

For citizens preferring offline submission:

  1. Download Form 6 from www.voters.eci.gov.in
  2. Print the form in A4 size
  3. Fill all required fields clearly in English or regional language
  4. Attach supporting documents:
    • Photocopy of identity proof
    • Photocopy of address proof
    • Photograph (2 copies, signed on the back)
  5. Submit to:
    • Your local Booth Level Officer (BLO)
    • Block Development Officer office
    • Any Election Commission office

Submission deadline: Claims and objections period extends until February 7, 2026

Documents Required for Form 6 Registration

Identity Proof (select one):

  • Aadhaar card
  • Passport
  • Driving license
  • PAN card
  • High school mark sheet

Address Proof (select one):

  • Ration card
  • Utility bill (electricity or phone)
  • Lease agreement or rental document
  • Bank passbook
  • Employer certificate with address

Date of Birth Proof (select one):

  • Birth certificate
  • School/College mark sheet
  • Passport
  • Aadhaar card

 ECINET Mobile App: Voter Services Made Easy

With the ECINET app, you get a bunch of helpful voter services right on your phone. 

Here’s what you can do:

  • Voter search - Locate your name in electoral rolls
  • Form download - Access all voter registration forms
  • Form 6 filing - Submit voter registration directly through app
  • Application tracking - Monitor Form 6 application status
  • BLO booking - Schedule appointments with Booth Level Officers
  • Toll-free helpline - Connect with election officials at 1950 + STD code
  • Constituency finder - Identify your assembly and parliamentary constituencies
  • Polling booth locator - Find your designated polling station

Accessing the ECINET App

Download and Installation:

  • Available on Google Play Store (Android)
  • Available on Apple App Store (iOS)
  • Search for "ECINET" or "Voter Services"
  • Free download with no subscription required

Getting Help Through ECINET:

  • Use "Book-a-call with BLO" feature for direct officer contact
  • Schedule callbacks at convenient times
  • Access frequently asked questions (FAQs)
  • Receive instant notifications on application status

Timeline: Important Dates for West Bengal Voters

SIR Phase-II Timeline for West Bengal

 

Event

Date

Duration

Enumeration Period Start

November 4, 2025

-

Enumeration Period End

December 4, 2025

1 month

Draft Electoral Roll Publication

December 15, 2025

-

Claims and Objections Period

December 15, 2025 - January 31, 2026

7+ weeks

Hearing Period (Unmapped Voters)

January 14 - February 7, 2026

3+ weeks

Final Electoral Roll Publication

February 14, 2026

-

All dates are fixed by the Election Commission and are strictly adhered to ensure electoral readiness.

Reasons for Voter Deletion from Electoral Roll

 Understanding Why Names Are Removed

The deletion of voter names is not arbitrary but follows strict Election Commission criteria and legal procedures:

Category 1: Deceased Voters

  • Voters who have passed away since the last electoral roll revision
  • Names verified through municipal records and public notices
  • Deletions require documentary evidence or family confirmation
  • Protects electoral integrity and prevents fraudulent voting

Category 2: Shifted Voters

  • Voters who have relocated to different constituencies
  • Those who moved to other states or union territories
  • Voters who no longer have permanent residence at registered address
  • Individuals who have shifted abroad for extended periods
  • May re-register in their new constituency using Form 6

Category 3: Absent Voters

  • Voters not found during enumeration despite multiple attempts by Booth Level Officers
  • Addresses where no family member is present during survey period
  • Residences that are locked or unoccupied for extended periods
  • Can claim inclusion through Form 6 if still eligible

Category 4: Duplicate Entries

  • Multiple registrations under the same person's name
  • Entries with identical fingerprints or biometric data
  • Voters registered in more than one constituency
  • Prevents potential double voting and electoral fraud
  • Only one authentic entry is retained

How to Appeal Deletions and File Claims

 Claim and Objections Period: What You Need to Know

Think your name got left off the list by mistake? Or maybe you want to challenge the removal of someone else’s name? Here’s how you do it—there’s a set window for claims and objections.

You can file from December 15, 2025, to January 31, 2026. The commission gives at least a week’s notice before the window opens, so you’ll have time to get ready. There’s also a special hearing period, from January 14 to February 7, 2026, for voters whose addresses haven’t been mapped yet.

How to File a Claim (If Your Name Is Missing)

  1. Gather supporting documents
    • Address proof showing current residence
    • Identity proof
    • Any previous voter identification documents
  2. Complete Form 6
    • Fill out comprehensively with accurate information
    • Attach all relevant documents
    • Obtain photograph attested by authorized person
  3. Submit through preferred channel
    • Online at voters.eci.gov.in (preferred and fastest)
    • To local Booth Level Officer
    • At block or district election office
    • Via ECINET mobile application
  4. Obtain acknowledgment
    • Save digital confirmation number (online)
    • Get receipt stamp (offline submission)
    • Note reference number for tracking

Filing an Objection (Against Another Voter's Inclusion)

If you wish to challenge someone's continued inclusion in the electoral roll:

  1. Identify the voter in question
  2. Document reasons for objection (with supporting evidence)
  3. Complete objection form with details
  4. Submit with evidence to election office
  5. Attend hearing if called for verification
  6. Await decision from electoral officer

Impact on 2026 West Bengal Elections

Electoral Significance of Updated Voter List

The finalized electoral roll on February 14, 2026, will serve as the:

  • Definitive voter list for all West Bengal elections in 2026
  • Basis for constituency delimitation and seat allocation
  • Reference document for election commission operations
  • Public record for electoral transparency and accountability

Voter Participation and Democratic Process

An accurate and comprehensive electoral roll ensures:

  • Maximum voter participation from eligible citizens
  • Prevention of electoral fraud through duplicate or ineligible voting
  • Democratic legitimacy for election outcomes
  • Equal representation for all constituencies
  • Transparent governance following constitutional procedures

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I check if my name is in the draft electoral roll?
A: Yes, visit www.voters.eci.gov.in, click the search option, enter your name and district to verify your voter status.

Q2: What should I do if my name is not in the draft list?
A: File Form 6 online or offline before January 31, 2026. Attach supporting documents and await processing within 30-45 days.

Q3: How much does Form 6 cost?
A: Form 6 filing is completely free. There are no charges for online or offline voter registration in India.

Q4: Can I file Form 6 on behalf of my family member?
A: No, each voter must submit Form 6 with their own signature. You can help them fill the form, but their consent is mandatory.

Q5: What if I don't have Aadhaar card?
A: Aadhaar is not mandatory. You can provide any other identity proof like passport, driving license, or PAN card.

Q6: Is there an age limit for voter registration?
A: No age limit exists once you reach 18 years. You can register and vote until any disqualifying event occurs.

Q7: Can I download my voter ID from the website?
A: Yes, after your Form 6 is processed, you can download your voter ID from voters.eci.gov.in.

Q8: What is the toll-free helpline number for voter queries?
A: Call 1950 followed by your state STD code (e.g., 1950 + 33 for West Bengal) for free assistance.

Conclusion: Your Role in India's Democratic Process

 The West Bengal draft electoral roll for 2026 shows just how serious the Election Commission is about running fair, open elections. Right now, it covers 7.66 crore voters, and they’ve already digitized over 92% of the forms. This SIR process proves India can pull off top-notch electoral work on a massive scale.


As a citizen of West Bengal, your responsibility is to:

  1. Verify your voter status in the draft list
  2. File Form 6 promptly if your name is missing
  3. Provide accurate information during the revision process
  4. Participate actively in the democratic process

 Mark your calendar: February 14, 2026. That’s when the final electoral roll comes out, and honestly, it’s the backbone of a real, fair election. Doesn’t matter if you’re voting for the first time or you’ve been at it for years—being on that list is what gives you a say in how India is run.

Got questions? Want updates or more details? Head to www.voters.eci.gov.in or grab the ECINET app. Everything you need is right there.

Last updated: December 16, 2025