New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday took serious note of threats against Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and other officials engaged in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2.0 of electoral rolls in West Bengal and other states, warning the Election Commission (EC) that ignoring such instances “will cause anarchy.”
A bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi directed the EC to immediately report cases of obstruction or lack of cooperation by state authorities. “Bring to our notice instances of hindrances to BLOs’ work, and we will pass appropriate orders,” the court told senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, representing the EC.
Dwivedi said worsening conditions may compel the EC to place police personnel—currently under state governments—on deputation. Justice Bagchi clarified, however, that the EC cannot assume control of police until the election process formally begins. Dwivedi added that the EC already has constitutional powers to protect officials engaged in SIR duties.
Calling the situation “very serious,” CJI Kant instructed prompt action. The bench also stressed that BLO duties involve door-to-door enumeration, form filling, and digital uploads, making the work far from simple, as noted by Justice Bagchi.
Senior advocate V. Giri, representing petitioners Sanatani Sangsad and others, highlighted allegations of violence and intimidation against BLOs and requested EC intervention for their protection.
UP BLO’s Tragic Suicide Highlights Rising Pressure
The deaths of several BLOs during SIR work have raised alarm over heavy workloads and mental stress. The latest case occurred in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, where 46-year-old teacher Sarvesh Kumar, a first-time BLO, was found dead at home.
A video surfaced showing Kumar apologising to his family, saying he “wanted to live” but was overwhelmed. His handwritten note described sleepless nights, suffocation, and fear of disciplinary action for not meeting digital targets.
His wife, Babli, said Kumar was sleeping only 2–3 hours a night, struggling with digital uploads and daily reporting, and receiving constant messages from officials warning of consequences for delays. (Agencies)
