In a bizarre case from Birbhum’s Rampurhat, Dhiren Mal has been declared dead in official records, while his wife—who passed away five years ago—remains an active voter! Shockingly, her name was still on the voter list in the last elections, and even her vote was cast, according to family members. Meanwhile, Dhiren is unable to vote or access government benefits due to this clerical error.

Adding to his misery, his wife’s pension is being deposited in the bank, but he cannot withdraw it. On the other hand, since he is listed as deceased, he has not received his own old-age pension for the past five years. Financially crippled, he now survives by begging. Despite repeated pleas to local authorities, no solution has been found yet.

This incident highlights severe flaws in the voter registration system and the urgent need for its correction. The administration must take immediate steps to ensure that affected citizens like Dhiren Mal regain their rights and dignity.