Ranchi CEO Stresses Urgent Appointment of Booth Level Agents for Electoral Roll Revision
In a significant development ahead of the upcoming special intensive revision (SIR) of the electoral roll, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Jharkhand, K Ravi Kumar, has issued a clear directive to all recognized political parties. On Thursday, Kumar emphasized the critical need for these parties to expedite the appointment of their booth level agents (BLAs) at every polling station across the state.
Coordinated Efforts Essential for Smooth Electoral Process
During a detailed briefing with representatives from recognized political parties, CEO K Ravi Kumar highlighted that the timely appointment of BLAs is paramount for ensuring coordinated and efficient work during the SIR process. "Recognized political parties should expedite the appointment of their booth level agents at all polling stations so that coordinated work can be carried out during the upcoming special intensive revision of the electoral roll," Kumar stated firmly.
He elaborated that this step is crucial to avoid any confusion or delays at the ground level, especially when BLAs collaborate with Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The CEO underscored the importance of completing comprehensive training for all booth level agents related to the intensive revision of the electoral roll. "Training related to the intensive revision of the electoral roll should also be completed for all booth level agents so that no confusion arises while working with BLOs at the ground level," he added.
Detailed Preparations and Verification Processes
Kumar provided an in-depth overview of the SIR preparations, which are already underway in Jharkhand. One key aspect involves mapping voters from the previous intensive revision electoral roll, a process currently being executed across the state. Once the SIR exercise commences, BLOs will undertake door-to-door visits to distribute enumeration forms to voters, collect them after they are filled, and affix stickers on the houses of all voters.
These stickers will serve a dual purpose: they will display the house number of the voter and the name and contact number of their respective BLO. "These stickers will contain the house number of the voter and the name and number of their BLO so that any citizen can obtain assistance related to the electoral roll," the CEO explained, ensuring transparency and accessibility for the public.
Verification and Publication of ASDD Lists
Another critical component of the SIR process is the handling of Absent, Shifted, Death, and Duplicate (ASDD) lists. Kumar clarified that these lists for all polling stations will be published only after thorough verification by BLOs from the booth level agents. This meticulous verification step is designed to maintain the accuracy and integrity of the electoral roll, minimizing errors and discrepancies.
The CEO also discussed various other points related to the SIR, including enumeration forms, draft publication, ASDD list management, notification procedures, and hearing processes. During the meeting, he actively engaged with party representatives, addressing their doubts and considering their suggestions to refine the electoral roll revision.
Call for Cooperation from Political Parties
In his concluding remarks, K Ravi Kumar made a strong appeal for cooperation from all recognized political parties. "Cooperation from all recognized political parties is expected during the SIR of the electoral roll," he asserted, highlighting the collective responsibility in ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. This call to action underscores the importance of bipartisan support in upholding democratic values and facilitating a seamless revision exercise.
The proactive measures and detailed planning outlined by the CEO reflect a concerted effort to enhance the electoral infrastructure in Jharkhand, paving the way for a more organized and accountable voting system in the state.
