The Election Commission has rolled out a significant update to the BLO (Booth Level Officer) application, introducing the 17th feature as the SIR (Summary Revision of Electoral Rolls) hearing process enters its concluding phase in Kolkata. This latest addition, titled 'Upload Hearing Photo and Attendance,' is designed to meticulously document the details of electors who appear before EC officials, aiming to effectively tackle and resolve any 'logical discrepancies' identified during the hearings.
New Feature Enhances Electoral Record-Keeping
By leveraging this new functionality, BLOs are now mandated to upload photographs of electors along with the attendance sheets from the hearings. This step is expected to streamline the verification process and ensure greater accuracy in the electoral rolls, thereby bolstering the integrity of the upcoming elections in the region.
Recent App Updates and BLO Concerns
This marks the fourth modification to the BLO app within a single month, highlighting the Election Commission's proactive approach to refining electoral processes. Earlier in January, three other features were integrated into the system: 'Document Uploaded by Citizen against Notice,' 'Quality Check of Elector Photo,' and 'Discrepancy in Mapping.' These updates collectively aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in voter registration and verification.
However, the introduction of the new feature has sparked some concerns among BLOs, particularly as the SIR hearing process nears completion. Many BLOs have expressed uncertainty regarding how to handle electors whose hearings were already conducted prior to the feature's implementation. A BLO from Bhowanipore voiced these apprehensions, stating, "The new option was added just a week before the completion of the hearing process. What should we do with those electors who have already attended the hearing? We are yet to receive any clarification on this matter."
Logistical Challenges and Delays
In addition to these procedural ambiguities, a section of BLOs has raised allegations about logistical inefficiencies. They report that Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) have been arriving late to several hearing centres, resulting in prolonged waiting times and forcing electors to stand in queues for hours. This issue underscores the broader challenges in managing large-scale electoral processes and highlights the need for improved coordination and timeliness.
The Election Commission's continuous updates to the BLO app reflect a commitment to leveraging technology for electoral management, yet the recent concerns indicate that further clarifications and adjustments may be necessary to ensure seamless implementation. As Kolkata gears up for the elections, these developments will be closely watched by stakeholders aiming for a fair and efficient electoral process.
