Why Are BLOs Protesting Outside the CEO Office in Bengal?
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Synopsis
BLOs in West Bengal have taken to the streets, protesting extreme work pressure from the SIR process. Their demonstration outside the CEO's office turned tense when police intervened as they sought to enter. With serious health concerns arising, the protest signals a growing unrest among these officers. Will their voices be heard?
Key Takeaways
- Protest by BLOs: Highlighting excessive work pressure.
- Attempted breach: Protesters tried to enter the CEO's office.
- Mental health concerns: Related to the workload from SIR.
- Political response: CM Banerjee has intervened.
- Future actions: Continuous protests are threatened if demands are unmet.
Kolkata, Nov 24 (NationPress) A group of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) organized a protest outside the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office in West Bengal on Monday, voicing their concerns over the excessive work pressure they face during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. The demonstrators attempted to enter the CEO's office but were halted by police, leading to a brief altercation.
The protest was initiated by the BLO Adhikar Raksha Committee, which marched from College Street in north Kolkata to the central office of the CEO. Carrying locks and chains, they symbolically attempted to seal the entrance to the CEO’s office. Upon arrival, some protesters tried to breach police barricades to gain access.
The BLOs claim that their grievances regarding unbearable work demands during the SIR process have been ignored by the Election Commission.
One protester stated: “We have been instructed to finish our tasks in a very limited timeframe. Tasks such as distributing enumeration forms, collecting them from voters, and uploading information online have to be completed in just one month. Normally, this process spans over two years. The workload has caused several BLOs to fall ill.”
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has reached out to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar regarding this issue, urging the election body to suspend the SIR process in the state.
This protest follows the tragic suicides of two female BLOs, who reportedly succumbed to stress and workload pressures associated with the SIR, while another BLO faced a cerebral attack during the process.
The committee warned of a sustained protest movement statewide if the Election Commission fails to extend deadlines or implement necessary adjustments.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the challenges faced by the BLOs in West Bengal. Their protest raises significant concerns regarding mental health and workplace conditions. The Election Commission must take these grievances seriously, ensuring the well-being of those who play a pivotal role in our democratic process.
NationPress
24/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reasons behind the BLOs protest?
The BLOs are protesting against the excessive work pressure associated with the Special Intensive Revision process, claiming their concerns have been ignored by the Election Commission.
What actions did the BLOs take during the protest?
The BLOs attempted to enter the CEO's office, leading to a brief scuffle with police. They also symbolically sealed the office entrance with locks and chains.
What has the Chief Minister said about this issue?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to the Chief Election Commissioner, requesting a halt to the SIR process in West Bengal.
What tragic events have occurred related to the protest?
The protest follows the suicides of two female BLOs, reportedly due to stress from their workloads, and another BLO suffered a cerebral attack during the SIR process.
