Why Are BLOs Protesting in Kolkata Over Their Demands?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In Kolkata, educators turned BLOs demand official assurances regarding their duties and security during the upcoming electoral revision. Discover the key issues driving their protest and the implications for the electoral process in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- BLOs are essential for the electoral revision process.
- Protests highlight concerns over their duties and security.
- Official documentation is critical to protect BLOs' rights.
- Polling booths with high voter numbers require additional staffing.
- Effective communication from the ECI is necessary for a smooth electoral process.
Kolkata, Nov 1 (NationPress) A group of educators from state-operated schools in West Bengal, selected as booth-level officers (BLOs) for the special intensive revision (SIR), organized protests in Kolkata on Saturday, advocating for three essential demands related to their involvement in the electoral revision process.
The initial phase of the three-part SIR in West Bengal is set to commence on November 4.
The responsibilities of the BLOs are particularly significant during this first phase, as they will be visiting every home with enumeration forms.
The foremost demand from the protesting BLOs is for an official written communication from either the Election Commission of India (ECI) or the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) confirming that they will not be required to fulfill their teaching duties while serving as BLOs and will be categorized as 'on-duty' during this timeframe.
“We have only been given verbal commitments from the commission regarding this matter. However, we are insisting on a formal official circular from either the commission or the CEO’s office. Without this, we face the potential risk of losing our accumulated leave or even our salaries,” remarked one protesting teacher.
The second demand is for a written guarantee from the commission or the CEO’s office ensuring adequate security measures for BLOs while they perform their field duties related to SIR.
“There have already been reports of BLOs facing threats in certain areas of the state. The CEO’s office has merely provided verbal confirmation that our safety will be prioritized. We are seeking a written commitment on this issue,” stated another protesting teacher.
The third and final demand is for the assignment of two BLOs to polling booths that exceed 1,200 voters.
“Initially, the plan was to ensure that no booth would have more than 1,200 voters. Yet, there are still booths with over 1,200 voters. Managing such a revision process alone is unfeasible for a single BLO,” explained a protester.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the challenges faced by educators serving as BLOs. Their demands highlight the need for clear communication from electoral authorities to ensure a smooth electoral process while safeguarding the interests of those involved.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main demands of the protesting BLOs?
The protesting BLOs are demanding official confirmation of their duty status, assurances for their security during fieldwork, and the assignment of two BLOs for polling booths with over 1,200 voters.
When does the first phase of SIR start?
The first phase of the special intensive revision (SIR) is scheduled to begin on November 4.
Why is security a concern for BLOs?
BLOs have reported threats in certain areas, prompting their demand for formal security assurances from the electoral authorities.
