Will SIR in Bengal Lead to Replacement of BLOs in 2,000 Booths for ECI Norm Violations?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, over 2,000 booth-level officers in West Bengal are likely to be replaced due to breaches of ECI regulations. District Magistrates have been directed to report on these irregularities, as the state gears up for crucial electoral revisions. This development raises questions about accountability and adherence to election norms.
Key Takeaways
- Over 2,000 BLOs may be replaced in West Bengal.
- Violations of ECI guidelines prompted this action.
- District Magistrates must submit reports on irregular appointments.
- Permanent employees should be prioritized for BLO roles.
- Disciplinary action may follow for non-compliant teaching staff.
Kolkata, Oct 3 (NationPress) Booth-level officers in more than 2,000 booths across various districts in West Bengal are on the verge of being replaced due to serious breaches of the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines concerning the criteria for BLRO appointments.
An insider from the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office revealed that the District Magistrates, who also serve as District Election Officers in the affected areas, have been instructed to provide comprehensive reports detailing the irregularities.
“Once we receive the individual reports from the District Magistrates, the process of replacing the improperly appointed officials will commence, adhering strictly to ECI guidelines. This replacement process will be completed prior to the commencement of the ECI-proposed special intensive revision in the state,” the insider mentioned.
According to ECI stipulations, there should be a consistent pattern for BLO appointments across all Indian states.
Initially, permanent state government employees in Group-C or above, along with teaching staff in state-run schools, should be prioritized for BLO appointments.
If there are insufficient candidates from the Group-C category or teachers in state-run schools, only then can contractual state government employees be considered for BLO roles.
However, it was pointed out by the insider that every appointment of contractual staff as BLO must be justified at the district level, and approval must be obtained from the CEO’s office.
“Recently, it has come to the attention of the CEO’s office that in about 2,000 booths across several districts, contractual state government employees have been appointed despite the availability of permanent employees or school teachers. Moreover, these appointments were made without the necessary approval from the CEO’s office,” the insider disclosed.
In a related development, the CEO of West Bengal, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, recently sent a letter to the State Education Department expressing concerns about the reluctance of certain teaching staff in state-run schools to take on BLO duties, despite clear instructions from a Calcutta High Court ruling. The CEO’s office has warned of potential disciplinary actions against any teachers who fail to comply with BLO duties within a specified timeframe.
Point of View
I believe this situation underscores the importance of maintaining electoral integrity. The potential replacement of booth-level officers highlights the necessity for strict adherence to guidelines, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently. We stand firm in our commitment to report on matters that affect democratic processes.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reasons for replacing BLOs in West Bengal?
Booth-level officers are being replaced due to serious violations of the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines related to their appointment criteria.
How many booths are affected by this decision?
More than 2,000 booths across various districts in West Bengal are likely to see the replacement of booth-level officers.
What guidelines are being violated?
The violations pertain to the criteria for BLRO appointments as outlined by the ECI, specifically the prioritization of permanent state employees.
How will the replacement process be conducted?
The replacement process will begin once detailed reports are submitted by District Magistrates, following strict adherence to ECI guidelines.
What actions are being taken against non-compliant teachers?
The CEO’s office has warned of disciplinary actions against teachers who refuse to accept BLO duties as mandated.
