The Election Commission (EC) is facing mounting pressure as the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls intensifies, leading to increased stress among Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and escalating tensions with political parties, particularly in West Bengal. The SIR, a nationwide effort to clean up India's voter rolls, has been marred by allegations of extreme workload, inadequate resources, and a rushed implementation, pushing poll workers to the edge.
Reports of BLO deaths and suicides due to work-related stress have surfaced across several states, including West Bengal, Kerala, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. In one instance, a para-teacher from West Bengal, assigned BLO duties, allegedly died by suicide, leaving behind a note blaming the Election Commission for "inhuman work pressure". While poll officials insist there is no direct link between the SIR and these tragic incidents, families and political parties allege that the excessive pressure and demanding timelines have contributed to the officers' distress.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has been particularly vocal in its criticism of the SIR process in West Bengal, alleging bias, administrative pressure, and lapses in voter roll management. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to the Chief Election Commissioner, seeking "immediate intervention" and raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral roll. The TMC has accused the EC of acting at the behest of a political party and has described the commission's responses as "outright lies," further widening the rift between the two sides.
In response to the growing concerns, the Election Commission has taken some measures to address the situation. These include appointing a special roll observer for West Bengal to oversee the SIR process and directing police officials to ensure the safety and neutrality of BLOs. The EC has also held video conferences with BLOs to address their grievances and has instructed District Election Officers to establish new polling stations in slums, high-rise buildings, and gated residential colonies.
However, these measures appear to have done little to alleviate the underlying issues. BLOs continue to protest against the "intense and inhuman work pressure," with reports of officers suffering cardiac arrests and exhaustion. Critics argue that the SIR's ambitious goals and tight deadlines are unrealistic, given the limited resources and infrastructure available. There are also concerns about the accuracy of the data being collected, with some suggesting that the pressure on BLOs could lead to errors and disenfranchisement of genuine voters.
The situation is further complicated by allegations of procedural irregularities. Mamata Banerjee has questioned the EC's decision to outsource data entry work, raising concerns about "vested interests" and potential manipulation of the electoral rolls. The EC has also been criticized for issuing show cause notices to already stressed BLOs, further exacerbating their anxiety and sense of being unfairly targeted.
As the SIR deadline approaches, the Election Commission faces the challenge of balancing its commitment to clean and accurate voter rolls with the need to protect the well-being of its field-level officers. Finding a solution that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders will be crucial to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
