West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has levelled severe accusations against the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state, alleging 'inhumane' conditions and a tragic human cost. In a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, dated January 10, 2026, Banerjee claimed that the SIR process has led to 77 deaths, four suicide attempts, and 17 hospitalizations. She attributed these incidents to 'fear, intimidation and disproportionate workload' arising from what she termed an 'unplanned exercise' by the ECI, accusing the poll body of 'relentlessly harassing ordinary citizens.' The Chief Minister highlighted that the revision process has become overly mechanical, driven purely by technical data, lacking human judgment and sensitivity. She cited instances where even eminent personalities like Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, poet Joy Goswami, and cricketer Mohammed Shami were allegedly asked to establish their credentials, calling it a 'profound shame' and 'sheer audacity on the part of ECI.' Banerjee also accused the ECI of making deliberate attempts to disenfranchise eligible voters due to minor discrepancies. Earlier on January 5, Banerjee had announced her intention to move the Supreme Court against the 'inhumane treatment' of citizens during the SIR. The Election Commission, meanwhile, had previously asked the Director General of Police of West Bengal to ensure the safety of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) amidst the SIR process, following reports of protests and alleged stress on field staff. While Banerjee's allegations of deaths and harassment are widely reported by multiple credible news outlets, it's crucial to note that these figures represent her claims and have not been independently verified by the Election Commission or other independent bodies as directly caused by the SIR process. The controversy underscores a significant political flashpoint ahead of upcoming elections.