In a move aimed at bolstering the integrity of electoral rolls and recognizing the tireless efforts of field-level staff, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a significant increase in remuneration for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and BLO Supervisors. The decision, which marks the first revision of pay since 2015, also introduces honorariums for Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs).

The annual remuneration for BLOs has been doubled from Rs 6,000 to Rs 12,000. Additionally, BLOs will receive an incentive of Rs 2,000 for electoral roll revision, up from the previous Rs 1,000. Furthermore, a special incentive of Rs 6,000 has been approved for BLOs involved in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, starting with Bihar. BLO Supervisors will see their annual remuneration increase from Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the ECI will also provide honorariums to EROs and AEROs, who previously did not receive any compensation for their work related to electoral roll management. EROs will now receive Rs 30,000 annually, while AEROs will be granted Rs 25,000.

The ECI emphasized the critical role played by the electoral roll machinery, which includes EROs, AEROs, BLO Supervisors, and BLOs, in ensuring the preparation of impartial and transparent electoral rolls. The commission stated that the decision to increase remuneration and introduce honorariums reflects its commitment to adequately compensating election personnel who work tirelessly at the field level to maintain accurate poll rolls, assist voters, and strengthen the electoral process.

The ECI's decision comes amidst ongoing efforts to revise voter lists and in the wake of repeated allegations against the commission. The increased compensation and recognition for the efforts of electoral staff are seen as a move to further empower field-level personnel and reinforce the integrity of the electoral process. The ECI has commended the electoral roll machinery for their hard work and pivotal role in preparing transparent rolls, emphasizing that pure electoral rolls are the bedrock of democracy. With these revisions, the ECI aims to strengthen India's democratic backbone through better support and recognition of its electoral workforce.