Overview West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated on Friday, January 23, 2026 , that three to four people are dying by suicide every day in the State due to anxiety over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) . She asserted that the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Central government should take responsibility for these deaths. This statement has ignited political controversy in the election-bound state. Key Developments Allegations and Accusations Suicide Claims: Mamata Banerjee alleges a high suicide rate due to anxiety related to the SIR . Responsibility: She holds the ECI and the Central government responsible for the alleged deaths. FIR Demand: Banerjee questioned why an FIR should not be registered against the poll body for the deaths, claiming that more than 110 people have died. Political Reactions BJP's Response: West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya criticized Banerjee , stating that the BJP is “changing the history” by getting rid of the “colonial hangover”. Legacy of Congress: Bhattacharya commented on those in politics banking on the legacy of Congress, suggesting they should not comment on the treatment of national icons. Electoral Roll Changes Voter Deletions: After the completion of the first phase of SIR , about 58 lakh names were deleted from electoral rolls. Current Voter Count: The number of voters in the State has decreased to 7.08 crore from 7.66 crore . Notices Issued: Approximately 1.36 crore notices have been issued to electors under the category of “logical discrepancies”. ECI Actions FIR Against MLA: On Thursday , the poll body directed officials to lodge an FIR against Trinamool Congress MLA Monirul Islam for vandalising the Block Development Office in Farakka earlier this month. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC syllabus, particularly under GS2 (Polity and Governance) , as it deals with electoral processes, the role of the Election Commission, and political controversies surrounding electoral roll revisions. It also touches upon aspects of GS1 (Modern Indian History) concerning national icons and historical narratives. Key Concepts for UPSC Election Commission of India (ECI): Its role, powers, and responsibilities in conducting free and fair elections. Electoral Roll: Importance of accurate and updated electoral rolls for democratic processes. Electoral Reforms: Measures to improve the integrity and transparency of the electoral system. Political Accountability: The responsibility of political parties and leaders in maintaining the sanctity of electoral processes. Important Facts Date of Statement: January 23, 2026 Number of Alleged Suicides: 3-4 per day Names Deleted: 58 lakh Current Voter Count: 7.08 crore Notices Issued: 1.36 crore