THE HINDU DATED 20TH JANUARY 2026

Summary of Important News Items and Editorials-79

THE HINDU DATED 20TH JANUARY 2026.

1. Supreme Court Flags “Stress” Caused by SIR in West Bengal

The Supreme Court expressed serious concern over the “stress and strain” caused to ordinary citizens by the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. Nearly 1.36 crore voters were issued notices citing “logical discrepancies” such as age gaps or number of children, triggering administrative and constitutional concerns. The Court questioned the statutory basis of such criteria, particularly whether personal family details like progeny have any relevance to voter eligibility. Emphasising proportionality and natural justice, the Court directed that names be publicly displayed at local offices, extended deadlines for objections, and mandated issuance of receipts for documents submitted. The broader logic is to balance electoral integrity with citizens’ right to vote without harassment. The Court’s stand reinforces that administrative efficiency cannot override constitutional rights, especially universal adult suffrage. The episode highlights the need for legally grounded, transparent electoral processes that minimise exclusion errors and public hardship.

2. RBI Proposal to Link BRICS Digital Currencies