Mamata Banerjee claims voter deletions in West Bengal targeted minorities and Matuas
April 7, 2026: Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday alleged that names of people from Matua and minority communities were removed from voter rolls in West Bengal following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Speaking at a rally in Chakdaha, Nadia district, she claimed that nearly 91 lakh names had been deleted, raising concerns over fairness ahead of the Assembly elections. The Election Commission of India is yet to release the final revised voter list.
Banerjee accused the Centre of discrimination, alleging that specific communities such as Matuas, Rajbanshis, and minorities were deliberately targeted. She pointed out that districts like Murshidabad, Malda, and North Dinajpur saw large-scale deletions. According to her, around 32 lakh names were restored after intervention in the Supreme Court of India, while others have been advised to approach tribunals, with the TMC promising legal support.
Framing the upcoming polls as a fight to protect identity and democratic rights, Banerjee urged voters to respond strongly. She also questioned the Centre’s stance on infiltration, saying border security is its responsibility. Elections to the 294-member Assembly will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.