Overview The Election Commission of India (ECI) has started the phased release of the post‑ SIR electoral rolls in West Bengal. The first batch, released on 28 February 2026 , shows that about 1.18 lakh names have been removed in Bankura district alone. This exercise is crucial as the state prepares for its upcoming Assembly elections. Key Developments Hard copies of the updated rolls are displayed in districts such as Bankura and Cooch Behar . Digital versions are yet to be uploaded on the official ECI portals and the ECINET mobile app. District Election Officers will distribute hard copies to political parties; the final roll will later be accessible on the ECI website. How Voters Can Verify Their Names Voters can check the final roll through two primary channels: Online portals : Visit the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal website ( ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in ) or the ECI portal ( voters.eci.gov.in ). After selecting the Special Intensive Revision 2026 option, choose ‘Final Publication of Electoral Roll‑SIR 2026’, enter district, constituency, language, and part/booth details, then download the PDF to search for your name. Ground level assistance : Approach the BLO in your area, who holds hard copies of the roll. When searching, three status tags may appear: No tag – name is confirmed on the roll. Under Adjudication – pending verification. Deleted – removed from the roll. Procedure If Your Name Is Missing Applicants must file Form 6 along with age and residence proof, a passport‑size photograph, and any other required documents. Submission can be done: Online via the ECI website or the ECINET app. Physically at the designated BLO office. Names marked “Under Adjudication” may later appear on a supplementary list after further scrutiny. UPSC Relevance The exercise illustrates the functioning of India’s electoral machinery, a core topic in GS2 – Polity . Understanding the SIR process, the role of the ECI , and the mechanisms for voter enrolment and deletion is essential for answering questions on electoral reforms, democratic participation, and governance. Way Forward Stakeholders should monitor the subsequent phases of roll publication, ensure timely digital updates on the ECI portal, and facilitate voter awareness campaigns—especially in rural and remote areas—to minimise disenfranchisement before the Assembly polls.