Mamata heads to Delhi over EC’s SIR

Kolkata | Desk: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will leave for Delhi on Wednesday to lead a major protest against the Election Commission's 'Special Intensive Revision' (SIR) process. She will be protesting against both the central government and the Election Commission.

The Trinamool Congress alleges that this process has led to the deaths of over 110 people in the state and that a large number of legitimate citizens are being harassed. Approximately 160 family members of these "victims" are also traveling to Delhi with Mamata Banerjee and will be accommodated at Banga Bhavan.

According to party sources, Mamata Banerjee's protest could influence discussions surrounding the Union Budget, which is scheduled to be presented on February 1. During her visit, she will also meet with leaders of other opposition parties, and has already received support from Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.

Akhilesh Yadav met with Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata and termed the SIR process a "white-collar NRC," alleging that it is being used to target voters in Bengal.

The Trinamool Congress has also kept its legal options open on this issue and is prepared to approach the Supreme Court if necessary.