Booth-level officers (BLOs) across Kolkata have encountered another significant challenge during the special intensive revision (SIR) season, which commenced over four months ago. With the release of the first supplementary list on Monday, BLOs were inundated with calls from electors anxious to determine whether they had successfully cleared the adjudication test.
Elector Anxiety and BLO Uncertainty
A BLO from the Bhowanipore area described the situation, stating, "All electors placed under adjudication in my part number started counting hours from the morning about how to get to know about their status on the supplementary list. The first call I received from an elector was around 9.30 am, and I had no clue about the list. Even in the afternoon I was unaware if BLOs would have any role regarding the list today. I heard that the list would be out after 8 pm, but I don't know if it will reach us. But my electors kept calling me throughout the day to enquire about it."
Role of BLOs in the SIR Exercise
Another BLO from the Tollygunge constituency explained their pivotal position, saying, "Being the linkman at ground level for the SIR exercise, BLOs like me are the go-to persons for those who need clarity about the electoral roll. Though we have not received any clear instruction about our role regarding the supplementary list, the supervisors have put us on alert that we may be asked to print and put up the list at the booth after its release."
Since November 4, when the special intensive revision of the electoral roll was initiated in the state, BLOs have maintained continuous communication with electors. They accompanied voters to hearing centers until February 14, where electors were required to present documents specified by the Election Commission.
Persistent Challenges for BLOs
A BLO from Howrah shared similar experiences, noting, "When the final electoral roll was published on the evening of Feb 28, I was swamped with calls from people asking about their names on the roll. This evening I experienced the same as people were trying to figure out the status of their voting rights even before the list was released. Though I assured them that I would let them know after checking the list, I was not sure if I could do so. Even, I had no idea when the list will be uploaded on the EC's website."
Anxiety Among BLOs and Electors
With numerous "known persons" undergoing adjudication, BLOs themselves are eager to learn the outcomes from the supplementary list. A BLO from the Shyampukur constituency expressed concern, stating, "About 10 electors in my part number are waiting for the results of judicial scrutiny to be able to exercise their franchise in the upcoming assembly polls. I am equally concerned as some of them have been living and casting votes in the city for a long time. Till evening, I had no clarity whether the list will be sent to us, or I need to know the status of these electors from the EROs who are supposed to have the hard copy of the list."
This situation underscores the critical role BLOs play in the electoral process, acting as intermediaries between the Election Commission and voters. Their efforts are essential for ensuring transparency and accessibility in the democratic framework, particularly during intensive revision periods.
