Ahead of SIR, EC Launches Helpline for Voters’ Doubts

Agencies, 31 Oct 2025, Kolkata: To maintain transparency and address doubts among citizens regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bengal, the Election Commission (EC) has launched a dedicated voter helpline, 1950, an official said on Thursday.

Citizens have been informed that they can use the helpline, along with other state and district-level services, to raise queries and register complaints related to electoral rolls.

“The SIR is a routine exercise under the commission’s supervision. Similar revisions have been conducted in other states, including Bihar, and we assure that no legitimate voter’s name will be excluded,” the official said on Wednesday.

To provide additional clarity and ensure voter confidence, the EC has activated multiple support channels. "The National Contact Centre now serves as a central helpline for all states and Union Territories, operating from 8 AM to 8 PM daily on the toll-free number 1800-11-1950," the official added. Trained personnel are available to assist citizens with electoral matters.

The commission has urged all eligible voters to make use of the 1950 helpline and other services to seek information, provide feedback, or report any grievances. This reflects the EC’s commitment to a transparent and inclusive electoral process. 

In addition to the central helpline, each state and district has been instructed to set up its own contact centres to provide prompt and effective support in local languages. All queries and complaints are being recorded and tracked through the National Grievance Service portal.

“Citizens can also directly contact their respective Booth Level Officers (BLOs) through the ECINET platform, which allows seamless communication with election officials,” the official explained. The ECINET mobile application further facilitates connections between voters and officials, and the commission has directed all Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs), District Electoral Officers (DEOs), and Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) to resolve complaints within 48 hours.

These new services supplement existing complaint redressal mechanisms. Voters may also email their concerns to complaints@eci.gov.in if they prefer.