The Election Commission of India (ECI) has approved the use of tea garden and cinchona plantation employment records as valid documents for identity and residence verification during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in seven districts of North Bengal. This decision comes after appeals to the ECI to recognize these records, particularly from those living and working in these areas.

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an exercise conducted to update and rectify electoral rolls. During this process, individuals are required to furnish documents that establish their identity and place of residence. However, many residents of tea gardens, cinchona plantations, and forest areas often lack traditional documentation like land records. Recognizing this challenge, the ECI has decided to accept employment records from these gardens and plantations as valid proof.

Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bengal Assembly, played a key role in advocating for this change. He urged the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to recognize employment records from tea gardens and cinchona plantations as official proof of identity and residence for the SIR. Adhikari highlighted that these workers and forest dwellers have been residing in these areas for generations but often lack the documents typically required for verification. He also pointed out that these employment records, some dating back before 2002, are already considered reliable proof for the labor department and for addressing workers' welfare issues.

This decision by the ECI is expected to benefit a significant number of people in the region, ensuring that their names are accurately included in the electoral rolls. It addresses the difficulties faced by those who lack conventional documents but can provide employment records to verify their identity and residence. This move is particularly important in West Bengal, where a large population is employed in the tea garden industry.

The acceptance of tea garden job records as valid ID proof is seen as a significant step towards ensuring fair and inclusive electoral participation. It acknowledges the unique circumstances of these communities and provides a practical solution to address their documentation challenges. This decision could potentially influence similar considerations in other regions with comparable situations.