The EC is considering extending the deadline for the SIR exercise in West Bengal, with the publication of the final voters' list likely to be deferred beyond the scheduled date of February 14, an official of the poll panel said on Wednesday. Compliance with multiple directions issued by the Supreme Court may make it difficult to adhere to the existing timeline, he said, adding that no final decision has been taken so far. The timeline came under scrutiny after the Trinamool Congress approached the top court, alleging irregularities and a lack of transparency in the SIR process. Whether the February 14 deadline will be retained or revised is expected to be decided after reviewing the progress of compliance with the Supreme Court's directions, the official said. So far, the West Bengal CEO’s office has not issued final guidelines for voters who have received hearing notices.

Source: The Telegraph January 21, 2026 13:45 UTC