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News Topical, Digital Desk : An organization of booth-level officers (BLOs) involved in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Bengal held a march in Kolkata on Monday. The BLOs alleged excessive workload and systemic flaws in the process. The organization alleged that booth-level officers across the state have been working under unprecedented and inhuman pressure since the start of the SIR.
The march began from College Square in north Kolkata to the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office in the city center, demanding immediate intervention and corrective action from the Election Commission. Para-teachers, college professors, and teachers from various organizations joined the march in support.
Protesters clash with police
The protesters attempted to lock the Election Commission office, which the police opposed. A heated exchange of words ensued. A group of BLOs then staged a sit-in protest in front of the office. They attempted to break through the barricades, leading to a scuffle with the police. A committee member explained, "We have been asked to complete the work in a short time, whereas such tasks typically take more than two years."
Protests will continue if concerns are not addressed.
Another committee member warned that protests would continue if the Election Commission did not extend the deadline or address the concerns raised by BLOs. Another organization, the BLO Oikya Manch, also raised issues related to the digitization of counting forms and demanded additional support staff. House-to-house counting under the SIR will begin on November 4th and continue until December 4th, with the draft list published on December 9th.
Three BLOs have died
It should be noted that three BLOs have died in the state so far. Their families claim this was the result of excessive workload. Two of these BLOs committed suicide. Additionally, about a dozen BLOs have fallen ill.
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