Has the EC Initiated a Probe into the Appointment of Contractual State Staff as BLOs in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India is probing allegations against the West Bengal administration regarding the appointment of casual workers as booth-level officers in Malda, despite the presence of permanent staff. This investigation follows claims made by the BJP, raising concerns about electoral integrity in the state amidst political tensions.
Key Takeaways
- The Election Commission is actively investigating electoral appointment irregularities.
- Allegations stem from claims made by the BJP regarding the hiring of casual workers.
- Malda district in West Bengal is the focus of the inquiry.
- The investigation aims to ensure transparency in electoral processes.
- The outcome could influence future political dynamics in the state.
Kolkata, Sep 8 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated an inquiry into the claims regarding the hiring of contractual state government personnel as booth-level officers (BLOs) by the local administration in a specific district of West Bengal.
The district under scrutiny is Malda, situated in the northern part of West Bengal.
According to a source from the office of the Chief Election Officer (CEO), West Bengal, “The investigation has commenced due to allegations from the BJP, supplemented by evidence, indicating that despite the presence of permanent state government employees in Malda, casual workers have been appointed as BLOs.”
The ECI has requested a report from the Malda district magistrate and the district electoral officer, instructing a thorough investigation into the matter.
“The district magistrate is expected to submit the report to CEO Manoj Kumar Agwaral with detailed findings within a week,” the source from the CEO's office stated.
Details concerning the irregularities in BLO appointments in Malda emerged during a meeting between the CEO and all district magistrates, who serve as district electoral officers.
This meeting was called by the CEO to assess the state’s readiness for a special intensive revision.
A subsequent meeting will be held this week by the office of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Gyanesh Kumar, with CEOs from all states in New Delhi to discuss preparations for the special intensive revision across various states.
The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have expressed opposition to the special intensive revision, arguing that its true intention is to enforce the NRC and CAA in West Bengal.
Conversely, the BJP has asserted that the Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee resist the special intensive revision out of fear that the names of numerous illegal Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators would be eliminated from the list during the revision process.
The last special intensive revision in West Bengal was conducted in 2002. Recently, a similar process was concluded in neighboring Bihar, where elections are scheduled for this year.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain neutral and present the facts. The ongoing investigation by the Election Commission into the alleged irregularities in booth-level officer appointments in West Bengal is a significant issue that highlights the importance of transparency and integrity in the electoral process. It is essential to ensure that all voices are heard as this situation unfolds.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What has the Election Commission of India ordered?
The Election Commission of India has ordered an investigation into the appointment of contractual state government staff as booth-level officers in West Bengal.
Which district is under investigation?
The district under investigation is Malda, located in northern West Bengal.
What prompted the investigation?
The investigation was prompted by allegations from the BJP that casual workers were appointed as BLOs despite the availability of permanent staff.
How long will the investigation take?
The district magistrate is expected to submit a report to the CEO within a week.
What are the political implications of this investigation?
This investigation raises concerns about electoral integrity and the political tensions between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP in West Bengal.
