Overview On December 29, 2025 , the vehicle of the Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Roll Observer (SRO), C. Murugan , was damaged during a protest in Magrahat, South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal . The incident occurred while the SRO was visiting a Summary Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing center. This event highlights the challenges faced by election officials in conducting electoral processes in certain regions. Key Developments Incident: Vehicle of ECI's SRO damaged by protestors. Date: December 29, 2025 . Location: Magrahat, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal . Reason for Protest: Alleged "unplanned implementation" of the SIR exercise. Involvement: Mujibar Rahaman Mollah , TMC-run Zilla Parishad president, led a group demanding entry for Booth Level Agents-2 (BLA2). Detailed Account of the Incident The agitators, primarily women, blocked the exit route of the SRO's vehicle and thumped on the car. Police personnel formed a cordon to try and control the protestors. The door handle on the driver's side of the car was nearly ripped off. The SRO was initially gheraoed at Shirakol High School , the venue for the hearing. Protesters claimed that ill, aged, and pregnant electors were being forced to appear for the hearing sessions. Political and Social Context Mujibar Rahaman Mollah stated that the protest was by ordinary people concerned about the conduct of the hearings. He claimed his presence was to support their demands and ensure that BLAs were allowed to remain at the hearings to prevent valid voters from being disqualified. Protesters also voiced concerns about unpaid dues for the 100-days work scheme and rural housing. ECI's Response and Previous Incidents The SRO , C. Murugan , stated his determination to complete his assigned task despite the disruptions. He deferred security concerns to the administration. This was not the first time the SRO faced public resistance; previous incidents occurred in Falta, South 24 Parganas , and Haldarpara, Howrah district . A senior official at the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) stated that a detailed report on the incident would be sought and forwarded to the Election Commission . UPSC Relevance This incident is relevant to GS2: Polity and Governance , specifically concerning the functioning of the Election Commission and the challenges in conducting free and fair elections. It also touches upon issues related to electoral roll management and potential political interference in electoral processes. Important Facts for UPSC Election Commission of India (ECI): Constitutional body responsible for conducting elections. Special Roll Observer (SRO): Official overseeing electoral roll revision. Summary Intensive Revision (SIR): Exercise to update electoral rolls. Booth Level Agent (BLA): Party representative at polling booth.