The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal has brought millions of voters under scrutiny, especially those marked as “unmapped electors.”
To ensure transparency and fairness, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced an online system that allows voters to check hearing notices, verify their SIR status, and upload documents digitally.
What Is SIR in West Bengal?
SIR (Special Intensive Revision) is a comprehensive revision of the voter list conducted by the Election Commission to:
- Remove duplicate or fake entries
- Verify long-standing voters
- Correct errors in electoral rolls
- Ensure only eligible citizens remain enrolled
In West Bengal, SIR involves linking current voter data with the 2002 electoral rolls.
Who Are ‘Unmapped’ Electors?
Unmapped electors are voters whose records could not be digitally linked to older (2002) electoral roll data due to:
- Incomplete digitisation of old records
- Spelling mismatches in names
- Change of address over the years
- Technical glitches in mapping software
⚠️ Being “unmapped” does NOT mean your vote is cancelled, but it may require verification through a hearing.
Why Are Hearings Held for Unmapped Voters?
The Election Commission conducts hearings to:
- Confirm the voter’s identity
- Verify citizenship and residence
- Prevent wrongful deletion from voter lists
- Rectify technical errors in records
Some hearings have been paused or exempted where unmapped status occurred due to confirmed technical glitches.
How to Check SIR Hearing Status Online (Step-by-Step)
Method 1: ECI Voters’ Services Portal (Official)
- Visit 👉 https://voters.eci.gov.in
- Click on “Search in Electoral Roll / SIR Status”
- Enter your EPIC (Voter ID) number
- Verify using OTP sent to your registered mobile number Check:
- Whether you are marked Unmapped
- Hearing notice date & location
Option to upload documents online
✔ This is the most reliable and official method.
Method 2: Voter Helpline / ECINET Mobile App
- Download Voter Helpline App or ECINET
- Log in using EPIC number or mobile OTP
- View SIR status and hearing updates
Method 3: CEO West Bengal Website
Visit 👉 https://ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in
Look for:
- SIR Notifications
- Draft Electoral Roll
- Hearing Notices
(Some links redirect to the ECI portal.)
What Documents Are Required for SIR Hearing?
You may be asked to submit any one or more of the following:
- Old Voter ID / EPIC
- Birth Certificate
- School Certificate
- Land or House Records
- Ration Card
- Government Service Records
❌ Aadhaar alone may not be sufficient in many cases.
Can Documents Be Uploaded Online?
✅ Yes.
If your hearing notice allows, you can upload documents directly through the ECI portal, reducing the need for physical presence.
Exemptions from Physical Hearing
The Election Commission has allowed relaxations for:
- Senior citizens (85+)
- Persons with Disabilities (PWD)
- Pregnant women
- Voters residing outside West Bengal In such cases:
- A family member may appear, or
- Documents may be verified at home by a Booth Level Officer (BLO).
What If No Hearing Notice Appears Online?
If the portal shows “No Record Found”:
- It may be due to a technical mapping issue
- Contact your local BLO
- Visit the Electoral Registration Office (ERO)
- Keep a copy of your voter ID and supporting documents
⚠️ Do not ignore the issue if you believe you should be listed.
Important Updates on Unmapped Electors in West Bengal
- Hearings for some unmapped voters have been temporarily halted due to digitisation errors in 2002 rolls
- Election Commission has instructed officials not to harass genuine voters
- Online checking and document upload facilities were introduced to reduce crowding and delays
Conclusion
The West Bengal SIR process is a major exercise aimed at ensuring clean and accurate electoral rolls.
If you or your family members are marked as unmapped electors, checking your hearing status online is the fastest and safest way to protect your voting rights.
👉 Always rely on official ECI portals and cooperate with BLOs when needed.
FAQs (SEO Bonus)
Q1. Is unmapped elector status permanent?
No. It is a temporary classification pending verification.
Q2. Will my name be deleted if I miss the hearing?
Missing a hearing may risk deletion, unless exemptions apply. Always check your status online.
Q3. Can BLO help with SIR verification?
Yes. BLOs are authorised to assist and collect documents.