Is the Election Commission Favoring One Political Party? Trinamool Raises Concerns
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Synopsis
The Trinamool Congress has leveled serious accusations against the Election Commission, claiming bias towards a political party and negligence leading to the deaths of several Booth Level Officers. This situation has escalated concerns regarding the ongoing Special Intensive Revision process, urging a reevaluation of the Commission's practices.
Key Takeaways
- Trinamool Congress alleges bias from the Election Commission.
- Claims of pressure on Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during Special Intensive Revision.
- Concerns over the deaths of BLOs attributed to work stress.
- Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called for a halt to the SIR process.
- Importance of transparency and accountability in electoral processes.
Kolkata, Nov 22 (NationPress) The Trinamool Congress has raised serious allegations against the Election Commission, claiming it is favoring a specific political party. This accusation comes in light of the tragic deaths of several Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. A delegation from the Trinamool Congress, headed by state minister Aroop Biswas, presented their concerns to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) in West Bengal.
The party contends that the Election Commission is attempting to complete two years’ worth of work in just two months, thereby exerting undue pressure on the BLOs. “The workload of two years is being crammed into two months. This has been done to benefit a particular party. Voter names are being systematically removed from booths, with the Commission's website rife with errors. The negligence of the Commission has led to numerous fatalities,” stated Biswas, accompanied by state minister Chandrima Bhattacharya and party MP Partha Bhowmick.
The Trinamool leaders expressed concern over the inadequate training provided to the BLOs. Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya further alleged that 34 individuals have died in Bengal due to the stress associated with the SIR process, urging the Election Commission to take accountability for these tragic events.
It is noteworthy that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has previously communicated with the Election Commission, requesting a halt to the SIR process. She highlighted the dire situation faced by the BLOs and the insufficient infrastructure, arguing that completing such a crucial task within the designated timeframe is unfeasible. Banerjee warned that the general populace would face adverse effects if the current pace continues.
The criticism against the Election Commission has intensified following the suicides of two female BLOs, with others falling ill amid the SIR-related duties. This past Saturday, a female BLO took her own life in the Shasthitala area of Krishnanagar, Nadia district. The victim, identified as Rinku Tarafdar (51), reportedly left a suicide note attributing blame to the Election Commission.
On November 19, another female BLO, Shanti Muni Ekka, also died by suicide, allegedly due to overwhelming work pressure during the SIR exercise in Mal Bazar, Jalpaiguri. Her family claimed that she felt compelled to end her life due to the stress of the SIR workload. On the same day, another BLO named Tapati Biswas suffered a severe health crisis while engaged in SIR-related activities.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with a balanced lens. The claims made by the Trinamool Congress underscore the importance of fair electoral processes and the well-being of those involved. While the Commission’s actions are being scrutinized, it is equally important to ensure that such allegations are investigated thoroughly, allowing for transparency and accountability in our democratic system.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against the Election Commission?
The Trinamool Congress accuses the Election Commission of bias towards a particular political party and claims that this favoritism has led to the deaths of several Booth Level Officers due to excessive work pressure.
How many BLOs have reportedly died due to the SIR process?
According to Trinamool Congress leaders, at least 34 individuals have died in Bengal due to the stress linked to the Special Intensive Revision process.
What actions has Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee taken?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to the Election Commission, requesting a halt to the Special Intensive Revision process, citing the adverse conditions faced by BLOs.
What was the reaction of the Trinamool Congress leaders?
The Trinamool Congress has voiced concerns over the pressure placed on BLOs, alleging that their work is being rushed to benefit a single political party.
What are the implications of this situation for democracy?
The allegations against the Election Commission highlight the necessity for fair electoral practices and the protection of those involved in the electoral process, which is fundamental to a healthy democracy.
