Why Did a Bengal BLO Serve Himself and His Wife with SIR Notices?
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Synopsis
In a striking act of integrity, a Booth Level Officer in West Bengal issued a Special Intensive Revision notice to himself and his wife due to discrepancies in their voter data. This incident highlights the importance of accountability and adherence to electoral regulations, setting a powerful example for public service.
Key Takeaways
- Integrity in Public Service: The action of the BLO showcases the commitment to uphold electoral rules.
- Equal Treatment Under Law: No special treatment is afforded to family members of officials.
- Importance of Accurate Voter Data: Discrepancies can lead to serious ramifications in the electoral process.
- Public Trust: Such actions can enhance the trust of citizens in the electoral system.
- Role of Election Commission: The Commission's vigilance is essential for maintaining electoral integrity.
Kolkata, Jan 14 (NationPress) In a remarkable display of integrity, a Booth Level Officer (BLO) in West Bengal announced on Wednesday that he has issued a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing notice to both himself and his wife, citing logical discrepancies in their voter registration details.
Devshankar Chatterjee, the BLO responsible for booth number 165 in Katwa, East Burdwan district, demonstrated his commitment to the regulations set by the Election Commission without any hesitation.
His spouse, Anindita Chatterjee, acknowledged her husband's unwavering commitment to the rules.
The occurrence took place in the town of Katwa.
Chatterjee, who also teaches at Bhomorkol Primary School in Ketugram, currently resides in the Chowrangi locality of Ward No. 10 in Katwa.
During a recent verification of voter information, logical discrepancies were uncovered in the records of both him and his wife.
The Election Commission identified a spelling error in the surname of Chatterjee's father and a notable age inconsistency regarding his wife's age compared to her father's.
Chatterjee's father's name is Pulakendra Chatterjee, but a spelling mistake was found, prompting the issuance of a hearing notice. His wife's family hails from Nakashipara in Nadia district, where her father's name is Anil Chatterjee, and a significant age difference of 50 years was noted, leading to another notice.
Upon receiving the notice via the EC's application, Devshankar fulfilled his responsibilities as a BLO.
"Despite my role as a BLO, I am obligated to adhere to the Election Commission's regulations. My family will not receive any preferential treatment; everyone is equal before the law," he stated to reporters.
As a result, the couple must now join the queue like any other citizens to participate in the hearing. Serving the notice to himself and subsequently to his wife was part of his duty as a BLO.
"This is his official undertaking. Everything he has done in the course of executing his responsibilities aligns with the rules," Anindita remarked.
Katwa Sub-Divisional Officer Anirban Bose commented, "Although he is a BLO, he must operate in accordance with the Election Commission's regulations. The same standards are applicable to his family as well."
Point of View
This incident underscores the fundamental principle that rules apply equally to everyone, regardless of their position. It reflects a commendable commitment to integrity in public service, which should be emulated across the nation. Upholding the law is paramount for trust in the electoral process.
NationPress
14/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the issuance of SIR notices?
The issuance of SIR notices was prompted by logical discrepancies found in the voter registration information of the BLO and his wife.
What are the specific discrepancies noted?
The discrepancies include a spelling error in the surname of the BLO's father and a significant age difference between the wife and her father.
What is a Booth Level Officer (BLO)?
A Booth Level Officer is responsible for managing and overseeing the electoral process at a local polling booth.
How does the Election Commission verify voter information?
The Election Commission conducts regular checks and verifications of voter information to ensure accuracy and compliance with electoral laws.
What does this incident say about public accountability?
This incident highlights the importance of accountability in public service, showing that even those in positions of authority are not above the law.
