EC launches helpline to clear voters’ doubts ahead of SIR in Bengal

To ensure transparency and public confidence in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched a dedicated voter helpline - 1950 , for citizens to seek clarification and register complaints.

Officials said the move aims to make the electoral process more accessible and transparent by addressing citizens’ concerns directly. The EC clarified that the SIR is a routine exercise carried out under its supervision and that no legitimate voter’s name will be deleted from the rolls. Similar revision drives, they noted, have already been conducted in other states such as Bihar.

As part of its outreach, the National Contact Centre will operate a toll-free helpline (1800-11-1950) from 8 am to 8 pm every day, with trained personnel assisting citizens on voter registration, verification, and grievance-related matters.

Each state and district has also been directed to establish local contact centres to respond promptly in regional languages. All complaints are being tracked through the National Grievance Service portal, and officials, including CEOs, DEOs, and EROs, have been instructed to ensure resolution within 48 hours.

Voters can also reach out directly to their Booth Level Officers (BLOs) through the ECINET platform and mobile application, which enables seamless communication between citizens and election authorities.

In addition to the helpline, complaints may be emailed to complaints@eci.gov.in.

The Election Commission said these measures strengthen existing grievance mechanisms and reaffirm its commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and accountable electoral process ahead of Bengal’s voter list revision.