West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee arrived at the Supreme Court on Wednesday as the apex court prepared to hear her petition challenging the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state. Banerjee is expected to seek permission to argue her case in person before the bench.
Sources indicate that Banerjee, who holds a law degree, has applied to appear as a party in person—potentially making her the first sitting chief minister in India to personally argue a case in the Supreme Court.
The West Bengal government’s petition challenges the Election Commission of India’s ongoing SIR process, alleging that the exercise is arbitrary, flawed and threatens voter rights. Banerjee has argued it could lead to mass disenfranchisement and adversely impact the upcoming assembly elections.
A Constitution bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, is set to hear a batch of related petitions today, including Banerjee’s plea.
Security has been heightened around the Supreme Court premises in New Delhi ahead of the hearing, underscoring the political and legal significance of the proceedings.
Aries: The day will be auspicious...