Should Para-Teachers Be Selected as BLOs in Bengal?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In West Bengal, the Election Commission warns district election officers to avoid appointing para-teachers as booth-level officers for the Special Intensive Revision, following complaints of intimidation over electoral integrity. This critical directive aims to uphold the standards of election management amidst rising concerns.
Key Takeaways
- District election officers must be cautious in selecting BLOs.
- Priority should be given to permanent government employees.
- Complaints of intimidation from BLOs need urgent attention.
- Para-teachers face scrutiny in their eligibility for BLO roles.
- Election integrity is paramount in the democratic process.
Kolkata, Oct 18 (NationPress) The district magistrates, who serve as the district election officers in West Bengal, have received guidance from the Election Commission of India (ECI) to exercise caution when choosing para-teachers as booth-level officers (BLOs) during the upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state.
The Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office has also instructed district election officers to verify if any para-teacher is currently appointed as a BLO, and if so, to replace them with candidates who meet the commission's criteria for such roles.
This caution comes in response to complaints from opposition parties regarding the potential selection of para-teachers as BLOs, highlighting specific instances of concern.
According to the commission's guidelines, priority should be given to permanent state government employees and permanent teachers in state-run schools who receive benefits such as provident funds, pensions, and gratuities when selecting BLOs.
In rare cases where these permanent employees are unavailable, contractual state government employees may be considered, pending approval from the CEO’s office.
Para-teachers are hired on a contractual basis to address educational gaps, particularly in schools facing teacher shortages or in remote regions. The practice of employing para-teachers, especially in West Bengal, differs from that in other states.
Additionally, a source within the CEO’s office indicated that district election officers have been urged to respond to complaints from BLOs about threats related to the inclusion of “false names” in the voter list.
Earlier this week, BLOs, part of the Electoral Workers Unity Forum, sent a letter to the CEO of West Bengal, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, detailing threats and intimidation received by many for including “false names”, demanding security during their election duties as part of the Election Commission’s SIR.
These BLOs reported that some faced intimidation involving the display of firearms.
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize that the integrity of the electoral process must be maintained. The Election Commission's guidance reflects a commitment to ensuring that only qualified individuals serve as BLOs, safeguarding the democratic process. We stand with the principles of transparency and fairness in elections, which are paramount for our nation's future.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of booth-level officers?
Booth-level officers (BLOs) are responsible for managing the electoral process at polling stations, ensuring smooth voting and addressing any issues that arise during elections.
Why are para-teachers being considered for BLOs?
Para-teachers are often considered due to staffing shortages in educational institutions, but their selection as BLOs raises concerns about their qualifications and impartiality.
What are the criteria for selecting BLOs?
The Election Commission mandates that priority be given to permanent state employees and teachers who receive retirement benefits, with contractual employees considered only in exceptional circumstances.
What complaints have been raised regarding BLOs?
BLOs have reported intimidation and threats related to the inclusion of false names in the voter list, prompting calls for increased security during their duties.
How does the ECI ensure fair elections?
The Election Commission implements strict guidelines for the selection of election officials and addresses complaints to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
