Are There Anomalies in the Selection of EROs in West Bengal?
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Synopsis
On October 10, 2023, Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, urged the Election Commission of India to investigate alleged irregularities in ERO selections ahead of the Special Intensive Revision. His claims raise significant concerns about electoral integrity.
Key Takeaways
- Call for ECI Intervention: Adhikari is requesting immediate action from the ECI.
- Irregularities Highlighted: Concerns over the selection process of EROs.
- Importance of Seniority: Senior officers should be prioritized in appointments.
- Integrity at Stake: Allegations threaten the electoral process's integrity.
- Impact of SIR: The Special Intensive Revision is set to begin soon.
Kolkata, Oct 10 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition (LOP) in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, has reached out to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding alleged discrepancies in the appointment of Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), as the commencement of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state is anticipated post-October 15.
Adhikari stated that the selection process overlooked the seniority of bureaucrats in numerous instances:
“I urge the Election Commission of India (ECI) to promptly address the multitude of irregularities in the recruitment of Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) throughout West Bengal. It has come to my attention that several District Magistrates appointed junior officers as EROs, neglecting senior West Bengal Civil Service (WBCS)—Executive officers, which is a blatant breach of the ECI's protocols,” the LOP articulated in a social media statement released on Friday.
Adhikari also provided a compilation of 226 EROs, whose selections he claims contravened the ECI-established guidelines. He asserted that this misconduct has compromised the integrity of our electoral framework.
He highlighted that the ECI has stressed that WBCS cadre officers reaching the levels of sub-divisional magistrates and rural development officers must be designated as EROs.
“I strongly implore the ECI to rigorously implement this directive in West Bengal, ensuring extensive corrections and proper enforcement to maintain equity and transparency in our democracy,” the LOP emphasized.
The function of EROs is vital in the hierarchy of electoral officers at the district level, particularly concerning the SIR. The forms and applications processed by booth-level officers (BLOs), who are the foundational tier in the command hierarchy, are initially scrutinized by assistant election returning officers (AEROs) before being finalized by the EROs.
Essentially, an ERO serves as a conduit between their subordinate BLOs and AEROs and their superior levels of additional district magistrate (election) and the district magistrate, who also functions as the district election officer.
Point of View
It is crucial to understand the implications of leadership calls for intervention in electoral processes. Irregularities in the selection of electoral officers could undermine the democratic fabric if not addressed promptly. Transparency and adherence to established guidelines are paramount for maintaining public trust.
NationPress
12/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the concerns raised by Suvendu Adhikari?
Suvendu Adhikari has raised concerns regarding irregularities and violations in the selection process of Electoral Registration Officers in West Bengal, specifically highlighting the appointment of junior officers over seniors.
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process initiated by the Election Commission to update and verify the electoral rolls in preparation for upcoming elections.
Why is the role of EROs crucial?
Electoral Registration Officers play a vital role in the electoral process by managing the registration and verification of voters, ensuring the integrity of the electoral rolls.
What actions does Adhikari want the ECI to take?
Adhikari urges the ECI to take immediate corrective actions regarding the selection of EROs to ensure that seniority and qualifications are adhered to.
How many ERO selections did Adhikari challenge?
Adhikari challenged the selection of 226 Electoral Registration Officers, claiming many were appointed in violation of ECI guidelines.
