– Shabana Javed
Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday announced that the state government will launch ‘May I Help You’ camps in every block from December 12 to assist citizens whose names may have been excluded from the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls.
Addressing a public meeting in Gajol, Malda, Mamata alleged that many people were facing harassment during the SIR process and claimed that actions were being carried out “on the orders of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.” She asserted that the Trinamool Congress would not allow BJP to “capture Bengal by any strategy,” and made a sarcastic remark by comparing BJP to “bugs” that must be dealt with “democratically.”
The first phase of SIR process ends on December 11, with the draft voter list scheduled for release on Dec. 16. The government, however, has chosen to begin support measures early by setting up camps to help citizens secure required documents. “Whoever needs certificates will get them there,” Mamata said, urging party workers to remain fully engaged in the field.
Trinamool sources said a consultancy firm’s survey has already identified potential exclusions and the reasons behind them. The party has completed initial organizational preparations, though administrative support will be essential once the work begins.
Mamata reiterated that no detention camps would be allowed in Bengal. She is scheduled to hold another meeting in Murshidabad on Thursday.
