The Election Commission has clarified that OBC certificates issued after 2010 will not be accepted as valid identity proof for Special Summary Revision (SIR) in West Bengal. The directive comes as part of measures to streamline the verification process and ensure compliance with electoral guidelines.
Officials stated that only OBC certificates issued before 2010 will be considered valid for voter identification purposes during the ongoing revision exercise. The move is aimed at preventing discrepancies and maintaining uniformity in the documentation process.
The Commission emphasised that voters must furnish alternative identity documents approved under electoral rules if their OBC certificates were issued after 2010. Authorities have urged citizens to check the list of valid documents to avoid difficulties during the revision process.
The clarification has generated discussions among political parties and civil society groups, with some raising concerns about the impact on eligible voters. However, the Election Commission reiterated that the decision is in line with established norms and intended to uphold the integrity of the electoral roll.
The directive is expected to influence the verification process across districts in West Bengal, as officials continue efforts to ensure accuracy and transparency in the voter registration system.
