Why is ECI Warning DMs Against Contractual State Employees in SIR?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has issued a vital warning to District Magistrates in West Bengal, stressing the prohibition of using contractual employees in the Special Intensive Revision process. This advisory seeks to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and protect against violations of established guidelines.
Key Takeaways
- ECI warns against using contractual employees in SIR.
- Importance of adhering to ECI guidelines emphasized.
- Only permanent employees should be involved in electoral processes.
- Immediate compliance with ECI directives is necessary.
- Public awareness is crucial to prevent violations.
Kolkata, Nov 22 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reiterated its warning to District Magistrates in West Bengal regarding the use of contractual state government employees in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
On behalf of the ECI, an Additional Chief Electoral Officer communicated to all District Magistrates, who also serve as District Election Officers (DEOs) in their respective regions, emphasizing the importance of adhering to guidelines that prohibit the engagement of contractual state employees in the revision process, which commenced on November 4.
This advisory comes after reports surfaced indicating that certain District Magistrates and DEOs had been employing contractual staff, thereby breaching ECI regulations.
"In light of this, I want to clarify that contractual data entry operators, contractual personnel, and BSK staff are not permitted to undertake data entry tasks for the ongoing SIR 2025. It has been noted that some officials are bypassing ECI guidelines by utilizing local orders to employ such personnel. Necessary actions should be taken against any DEOs/EROs/AEROs found in violation," stated the note from the additional CEO, which is available with IANS.
Welcoming this directive, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, remarked that the ECI's instructions require immediate compliance.
"The ECI guidelines are unequivocal in stating that contractual data entry operators and similar staff cannot be involved in data entry for the ongoing SIR. This information must be disseminated to ensure the public remains alert to any potential violations," Adhikari commented.
This is not the first instance where the ECI has warned DEOs against the employment of contractual state government employees in the SIR.
Previously, last month, the ECI had issued an advisory to DEOs, urging them to exercise utmost diligence in appointing para-teachers as booth-level officers (BLOs) for the SIR.
The ECI reminded that according to its guidelines, only permanent state government employees and permanent teachers in state-run institutions who are entitled to retirement benefits such as provident funds and pensions should be prioritized for selection as BLOs.
In exceptional circumstances where permanent state employees or teachers are unavailable, the selection of contractual state employees can be considered, contingent upon approval from the CEO's office.
Point of View
I believe the Election Commission's firm stance against the use of contractual state employees in the electoral process is essential for maintaining the integrity of our democratic systems. This vigilance ensures that the guidelines set forth are adhered to, fostering trust in the electoral process.
NationPress
08/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process initiated by the Election Commission of India to update and verify electoral rolls ahead of elections.
Why can't contractual employees be used in the SIR?
Contractual employees are not permitted in the SIR to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and ensure compliance with ECI guidelines.
What actions can be taken against DEOs who violate ECI guidelines?
The ECI has advised that appropriate actions should be initiated against DEOs, EROs, or AEROs who utilize contractual employees in violation of the established guidelines.
Who should be prioritized as booth-level officers?
The ECI mandates that only permanent state government employees and permanent teachers eligible for retirement benefits should be prioritized as booth-level officers.
What happens if there are no permanent employees available?
In exceptional cases, contractual state employees may be considered for selection as booth-level officers, but only with approval from the CEO's office.
