Why Are Medinipur BLOs Protesting Against Data Entry Work Under SIR?
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Synopsis
Tensions erupted at the Medinipur Sadar BDO office as Booth Level Officers protested against overwhelming responsibilities during the Special Intensive Revision. Their memorandum highlighted challenges in data entry and the need for support, raising concerns about the impact on their family lives and the election process in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- BLOs are facing heightened responsibilities due to Special Intensive Revision.
- Protests highlight the need for additional support and resources.
- Concerns about data entry errors and accountability among BLOs.
- Need for an extension of deadlines for better accuracy.
- BDO acknowledges grievances and is considering solutions.
Medinipur, Nov 13 (NationPress) A heated situation unfolded at the Medinipur Sadar BDO office on Thursday as Booth Level Officers (BLOs) from both Medinipur city and the Sadar block voiced their discontent over what they perceive as an increasing burden of responsibilities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) initiative. This effort is currently underway in West Bengal to enhance the integrity of electoral rolls.
Frustrated with the ‘challenges’ related to data entry, distribution, and the collection of voter forms, the BLOs presented a memorandum to BDO Kahekashan Parveen, outlining numerous grievances.
“I can’t manage it anymore…data entry is unmanageable!” voiced several BLOs during the protest.
In the memorandum, the BLOs expressed concerns regarding the difficulties they face with data entry after fulfilling their school duties and taking on BLO responsibilities.
Many admitted to lacking familiarity with this task, especially older BLOs, who struggle with using Android devices. They expressed fear that mistakes in data entry could lead to voters blaming them.
BLO Sanjeev Kumar shared with IANS that they were initially instructed to distribute enumeration forms and collect them. Now, they are being tasked with data entry, which they claim is beyond their capabilities.
“We refuse to take on this responsibility; our family lives are being disturbed due to the pressure,” he remarked.
The memorandum also highlighted the intense stress involved in distributing and collecting forms within a one-month deadline.
BLOs managing over 1,200 voters demanded the assignment of assistant BLOs to alleviate the workload and ensure accuracy in the process.
Moreover, the BLOs requested an extension of the December 4 deadline for submitting and verifying enumeration forms, citing the equal challenges of verifying all details and receiving forms as experienced in the distribution process.
In response to the memorandum, BDO Kahekashan Parveen stated, “They raised several demands and grievances. I have informed higher authorities about them. We are seriously considering the issue of assigning assistant BLOs. They will be provided assistant BLOs according to the criteria.”
The protest occurs at a crucial juncture as voter registration and verification processes are underway under Special Intensive Revision (SIR) across West Bengal.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of supporting our electoral officials while also ensuring efficient processes for voter registration. The concerns of the BLOs need to be addressed promptly to maintain the integrity of the electoral system and support those who serve it.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the protest by BLOs in Medinipur?
The BLOs are protesting due to overwhelming responsibilities associated with data entry during the Special Intensive Revision process, which they find unmanageable alongside their other duties.
What are the BLOs requesting from the BDO?
They are requesting the assignment of assistant BLOs to help alleviate their workload and an extension of the December 4 deadline for submitting and verifying enumeration forms.
How are the BLOs being affected by their current responsibilities?
Many BLOs have expressed that the pressure from their duties is disrupting their family lives and causing significant stress due to the intensive nature of data entry tasks.
