BJP leader and former Karnataka minister R Ashoka on Tuesday accused the Congress-led state government of failing to appoint booth level officers (BLOs) in many areas, alleging that non-officials and Congress leaders have been appointed as BLOs in at least 20 places in Jayanagar constituency.
Allegations of Irregular Appointments
Speaking to reporters, Ashoka claimed that the government is not following proper procedures for appointing BLOs, which are crucial for election management. “In Jayanagar alone, we have found 20 instances where non-officials and Congress leaders have been appointed as BLOs. This is a serious violation of norms,” he said.
He further alleged that the government’s actions are aimed at influencing the electoral process in favor of the ruling party. “The Congress government is trying to manipulate the system by appointing its own people as BLOs. This will undermine the fairness of elections,” Ashoka added.
Demand for Immediate Action
The BJP leader demanded that the Election Commission intervene and ensure that only eligible government officials are appointed as BLOs. “We urge the Election Commission to take suo motu cognizance of this issue and direct the government to rectify the appointments immediately,” he said.
Ashoka also warned that the BJP would launch a statewide protest if the government did not address the issue. “We will not allow the Congress to subvert the democratic process. If necessary, we will hold protests across Karnataka,” he stated.
The allegations come ahead of the upcoming local body elections in the state, where booth-level management is critical for both parties.
