Kerala Election Authority Issues Stern Warning
Kerala's Chief Electoral Officer, Sanjay Kaul, has issued a strong warning against individuals obstructing Booth Level Officers (BLOs) from performing their duties during the ongoing Special Summary Revision (SSR) of electoral rolls. The announcement came during a press conference held in Thiruvananthapuram on November 19, 2025.
Multiple Challenges Faced by Election Officials
The Chief Electoral Officer confirmed receiving numerous reports from across Kerala detailing various forms of interference with election officials' work. These incidents include physical prevention of BLOs from conducting their field duties, organized campaigns spreading misinformation about election officials, and concerning cases of cyberattacks targeting the officers.
Kaul expressed serious concern over these developments, emphasizing that such actions undermine the democratic process and compromise the integrity of electoral preparations. "Booth Level Officers are the backbone of our electoral machinery at the grassroots level," he stated during the conference.
Strict Action Promised Against Offenders
The election authority has made it clear that legal action will be taken against anyone found obstructing BLOs or spreading false information about them. The CEO's office is coordinating with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of election officials while they perform their constitutional duties.
Specific measures being implemented include:
- Enhanced security protocols for BLOs during field visits
- Cybersecurity measures to protect officials from online threats
- Rapid response teams to address complaints of obstruction
- Awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of BLO work
The timing of this warning is crucial as Kerala prepares for upcoming electoral processes. The Special Summary Revision work is considered fundamental to maintaining accurate voter lists and ensuring free and fair elections in the state.
Citizens have been urged to cooperate with BLOs and report any instances of obstruction or misinformation to the election authorities immediately. The CEO's office has established dedicated helplines and online portals for this purpose.
