Will the Bengal CEO Resolve Network Issues with Telecom Firms?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal is urgently addressing network issues impacting Booth Level Officers during the critical Special Intensive Revision exercise. With reports of tragic consequences arising from stress, this meeting with telecom companies aims to ensure better connectivity and support for the BLOs.
Key Takeaways
- CEO of West Bengal to meet telecom companies.
- Network issues affecting BLOs during SIR exercise.
- Concerns over workload stress leading to tragic outcomes.
- Election Commission addressing technical challenges.
- Timely remuneration for BLOs is a priority.
Kolkata, Nov 23 (NationPress) On Monday, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal is set to convene a meeting with telecom service providers following numerous complaints from Booth Level Officers (BLOs) regarding network difficulties encountered while scanning QR codes and uploading enumeration forms as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) initiative.
Sources within the Election Commission disclosed on Sunday that CEO Manoj Agarwal will engage in discussions with telecom companies concerning the server issues of the website.
BLOs have raised various complaints related to the workload associated with the SIR process, particularly highlighting issues with online data uploads. They are often hindered by inadequate connectivity.
In light of this, the Election Commission has opted to tackle these concerns. A meeting with all telecom companies will be organized to address these challenges.
This development arises as a number of BLOs have expressed frustration over the strain of the SIR exercise. Many have reported feeling overwhelmed by the demands of timely online submission of completed enumeration forms, which necessitates reliable network access without interruptions.
It is critical to mention that two female BLOs have tragically taken their own lives reportedly due to the pressures of the SIR workload, while several others have fallen ill during the process.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has instructed local administrations to commence payments to BLOs for their SIR duties starting next week. With rising instances of suicides and heart attacks attributed to workload stress, the Commission is determined to ensure timely remuneration in order to alleviate further pressure on BLOs.
Last week, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reached out to the Election Commission requesting an immediate halt to the SIR process in West Bengal. According to sources, the state CEO received directives from Delhi to investigate the BLOs' challenges and promptly rectify the technical issues with the website. Following these instructions, the CEO decided to organize a meeting with telecom providers.
Point of View
The situation highlights the urgent need for addressing the challenges faced by BLOs during the electoral process. With the potential for serious consequences, it is crucial that the Election Commission and telecom companies collaborate effectively to ensure that these officers can perform their duties without undue stress.
NationPress
23/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision exercise?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise is a process conducted by the Election Commission to update and verify the electoral rolls to ensure accurate voter registration.
Why are BLOs facing network issues?
BLOs are encountering network issues mainly due to inadequate connectivity which hampers their ability to scan QR codes and upload enumeration forms online.
What measures is the Election Commission taking?
The Election Commission is organizing a meeting with telecom companies to address the network problems that BLOs are experiencing during the SIR exercise.
What are the consequences of the workload on BLOs?
The workload has reportedly led to extreme stress among BLOs, with tragic incidents of suicides and health issues being reported.
How is remuneration for BLOs being handled?
The Election Commission has directed local administrations to ensure timely payment of remuneration to BLOs for their work related to the SIR exercise.
