In a development that has triggered a sharp political backlash, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a hearing notice to Nobel Laureate and world-renowned economist Amartya Sen. The notice is part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in West Bengal.

The notice, delivered on January 7, 2026, requests the 92-year-old NRI economist to clarify certain "logical discrepancies" found in his voter registration data.

The 'Age Discrepancy' Controversy

The ECI’s automated system flagged Professor Sen’s record because of an unusual data point:

The Discrepancy: According to the enumeration form, the age difference between Amartya Sen and his late mother, Amita Sen, was recorded as less than 15 years.

Family Clarification: Family friends and relatives at his Santiniketan residence, 'Pratichi', have clarified that this is a technical error or a typo. His mother was born in 1914, making the actual age difference roughly 19 years and 6 months. Mlada Rib Knit Crop Top for Women | Cotton Ribbed Top for Women | Round Neck Rib Knit Crop Top Sleeveless | Regular Fit Sleeveless Tank Top | Solid Fit Crop Tops for Women | Sleeveless Cotton Crop Top

Hearing Scheduled at Santiniketan Residence

Given Professor Sen's age (above 85) and his stature, the ECI has clarified that he is not required to visit any government office.

Date & Time: The hearing is scheduled for January 16, 2026, at 12:00 PM.

Location: A Booth Level Officer (BLO), Sombrata Mukherjee, will visit Professor Sen’s 'Pratichi' residence in Bolpur, Birbhum district, to verify necessary documents.

Required Action: The family or authorized representatives must produce valid documents (such as age or birth proof) to rectify the record and ensure his name remains on the electoral roll. Also Read: Karnataka’s 2026 Election Marathon: 7 Key Polls Set to Redefine Local Governance