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The Election Commission of India has expressed significant dissatisfaction regarding the West Bengal government's alleged disregard for election-related directives. In a stern letter, the Commission cautioned the state government that despite repeated reminders, several crucial instructions have not been followed. The Commission has now set a final deadline of February 9, 2026, for the state government to comply with these directives.

Details of Non-Compliance

A senior official revealed that the letter addressed to the Chief Secretary highlighted the failure to adhere to previously issued directives. The Commission noted that, under Section 32 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code, 2023, no FIR has been filed against two electoral registration officers (EROs), two assistant EROs (AEROs), and one data entry operator so far.

Previous Correspondence and Allegations

The Commission referenced letters sent on August 5, 2025, and January 2, 2026, regarding this matter. It also pointed out that the AERO of Bashirhat-2 and Block Development Officer Sumitra Pratim Pradhan have not been suspended, despite allegations of unauthorized deployment of 11 additional AEROs in violation of statutory provisions.

Urgent Compliance Required

In a letter dated January 25, 2026, the Commission demanded compliance within 48 hours, emphasizing that this was a violation of the Supreme Court's order from September 21, 2000, and the Commission's directives issued on May 31, 2023. Furthermore, despite violations related to the Special Intensive Review (SIR) directives issued on October 27, 2025, the transfers of three electoral list supervisors—Ashwini Kumar Yadav, Randhir Kumar, and Smita Pandey—have not yet been revoked.

Concerns Over Appointments

The Commission expressed concerns regarding the appointments of electoral registration officers and election officials, stating that these do not meet the standards set by the Commission, which could potentially compromise the integrity of the electoral process.

Violation of Court Orders

In its letter, the Election Commission made it clear that the delays not only violate its guidelines but also the Supreme Court's order from September 21, 2000. The Commission expressed frustration that the state administration did not take the '48-hour ultimatum' issued on January 25 seriously.