Did BJP Complain to EC About Trinamool Leader's BLO Appointment in Bengal?
Synopsis
The BJP has raised serious concerns regarding the appointment of a Trinamool Congress leader as a Booth-Level Officer in Bengal, alleging potential electoral manipulation. This complaint has sparked a political controversy, highlighting the delicate balance of power in the state.
Key Takeaways
The BJP's complaint highlights concerns over electoral integrity in West Bengal.
Chandan Saha, the appointed BLO, claims to have distanced himself from political activities.
The Trinamool Congress asserts that the administration is responsible for the selection of BLOs.
Kolkata, Feb 2 (NationPress) The BJP's West Bengal unit lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday, asserting that a local president from the ruling Trinamool Congress was appointed as a Booth-Level Officer (BLO) during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state.
The BJP's complaint highlights the case of Chandan Saha, who serves as the BLO for booth number 146 at Kajaldighi Primary School in the Khempur village panchayat, located in block number 2 of Malda district. Allegedly, his name appears in the lists of the Trinamool Congress’s block and regional committees.
The BJP claims that Chandan Saha holds the position of Khempur regional secretary within the Trinamool Congress.
To support their allegations, the Opposition party has presented the Election Commission with documentation that includes Saha's name.
Pratap Chandra Sinha, the BJP’s district president for Malda (North), argued that this situation demonstrates how the ruling party has manipulated the system, allowing its leaders to serve as BLOs, which facilitates potential electoral fraud on behalf of the state’s governing party. “We have informed the ECI about this development,” he stated.
Saha responded to reporters in Malda, claiming that this was not his first experience as a BLO, having previously been active in the Trinamool Congress's teachers’ wing.
“Upon my selection as a BLO, I have distanced myself from political activities. I have not engaged in any party meetings or political events,” he clarified.
Ashish Kundu, the spokesperson for the Trinamool Congress in Malda district, emphasized that the administration is responsible for BLO selections.
“Our Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, has countless supporters, many of whom have been appointed as BLOs. If a criterion were set to exclude party affiliates, it would be nearly impossible for the administration to appoint enough BLOs,” Kundu asserted.
Point of View
The appointment of political figures in electoral roles raises significant concerns about fairness and transparency in the electoral process. It is crucial for the Election Commission to investigate such claims thoroughly to maintain the integrity of India's democratic framework.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Booth-Level Officer (BLO)?
A Booth-Level Officer (BLO) is responsible for ensuring the smooth conduct of elections at the ground level, including voter registration and overseeing the polling process.
Why is the BJP concerned about this appointment?
The BJP claims that the appointment of a Trinamool Congress leader as a BLO could lead to electoral manipulation, undermining the fairness of the election process.
What actions has the BJP taken?
The BJP has filed a formal complaint with the Election Commission of India, providing documentation to support their claims regarding the BLO's political affiliations.
