Strict Action for Obstructing BLO Duty, Control Solely with Election Commission: Chief Electoral Officer
Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Rathan Kelkar has announced that the control over Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will remain solely with the Election Commission, emphasizing that their appointments are in strict adherence to constitutional provisions. The Commission has declared that stringent measures will be taken against individuals who obstruct the duties of BLOs.
Dr. Kelkar revealed that complaints have been received from various districts regarding instances of false news and social media campaigns targeting dedicated BLOs. To address this, district collectors have been instructed to register cases under Section 121 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against those who impede BLOs in their crucial electoral responsibilities. This offense carries a potential imprisonment of up to 10 years. Furthermore, robust action will be initiated against those engaging in cyber attacks aimed at these officers. Police forces have also been directed to provide necessary assistance to BLOs. The Chief Electoral Officer confirmed that more than 97% of enumeration forms have been distributed, and 5 lakh forms have already been digitized.
In a move to streamline Special Summary Revision (SIR) activities, Dr. Kelkar has advised BLOs to organize meetings with Booth Level Agents (BLAs) nominated by recognized political parties. This initiative aims to ensure maximum accuracy and transparency in the electoral process and prevent future grievances. Dr. Kelkar urged all political parties to actively participate in these meetings. He also noted that the number of forms where BLOs are currently unable to verify a voter’s presence or residence stands at 51,085, a figure that is anticipated to rise.
The Central Election Commission had previously decided to enlist the help of BLAs, who represent political parties, for the collection of completed enumeration forms. This marks a shift from the previous stance where the Commission insisted that BLOs who issued the forms should be responsible for their collection. The Chief Electoral Officer has now informed political parties that BLAs can collect a maximum of 50 forms daily and submit them to the respective BLOs. This new directive comes in the wake of a BLO’s suicide in Kannur and the subsequent protests.
Additionally, political parties are permitted to establish help desks, with the knowledge and approval of district collectors, to facilitate the collection of forms. After the draft voter list is officially published on December 9, new applications for voter registration, up to ten per day, will also be accepted. Both the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) have expressed their intent to set up these help desks.