In a significant move to uphold electoral integrity, the Election Commission of India has taken strict action against several officials in West Bengal for failing to follow proper procedures during the crucial voter list update process.
Show-Cause Notices for Protocol Violations
The Election Commission has issued show-cause notices to eight Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in West Bengal after discovering they were distributing enumeration forms for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision from inappropriate locations. According to reports received by the Commission, these BLOs were allegedly operating from tea stalls, local clubs, and other public places instead of making personal visits to voters' residences as required by election regulations.
New Guidelines for Electoral Roll Revision
Responding to these procedural lapses, the EC has released a new set of guidelines to ensure strict compliance with established procedures during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in the state. Officials at the state Chief Electoral Office confirmed that the Commission expressed strong dissatisfaction over these violations of protocol that compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
Directives to District Officials
The Election Commission has instructed all District Election Officers (DEOs) and District Magistrates to ensure that BLOs personally visit each voter's residence to deliver and collect forms as mandated by electoral regulations. This direct intervention underscores the Commission's commitment to maintaining the highest standards in the electoral roll preparation process, which forms the foundation of free and fair elections.
The ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls is a critical exercise ahead of future elections, and the Commission's swift action demonstrates its zero-tolerance approach toward any deviations from established procedures that could affect the democratic process.
