'Booth Bangla': BLOs Spooked By Tug Of War Between EC And TMC

Last Updated:October 22, 2025, 23:01 IST

A significant number of BLOs have reportedly written to the Election Commission citing various reasons for their inability to perform poll-related duties

Sources within the Election Commission maintain that a substantial number of BLOs are essential for the SIR exercise, and hence the issuance of show-cause notices was necessary. (Representational photo)

Booth-level officers (BLOs) in West Bengal now find themselves caught between the Election Commission (EC) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. A significant number of BLOs have reportedly written to the commission citing various reasons for their inability to perform election-related duties.

According to sources, the Election Commission has issued show-cause notices to nearly 600 BLOs, asking them to provide written explanations for their unwillingness to participate in upcoming election procedures.

Experts say that with the special intensive revision (SIR) process underway and the political temperature running high, many BLOs on the ground are anxious and reluctant to get involved.

Speaking to News18, Bhaskar, leader of Sangram Journo Mancho—a union representing government employees—said, “Many BLOs have cited personal reasons in their letters to the EC. But it’s clear that the ongoing tussle between the commission and the state government has left them in a difficult position. Most of these officers work under the state administration."

Sources within the Election Commission maintain that a substantial number of BLOs are essential for the SIR exercise, and hence the issuance of show-cause notices was necessary.

Meanwhile, the political blame game has intensified between the TMC and the BJP. Trinamool leader Jayprakash Majumdar told News18, “No one wants to do anything wrong. People know that this Election Commission has become synonymous with the BJP. They fear being forced into wrongdoing, which is why they are reluctant."

Responding to the charge, BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya countered, “From the chief minister to her ministers and local TMC leaders, everyone is intimidating BLOs during the SIR process. They are nervous, but I’m confident the Election Commission will ensure their safety."

With the SIR requiring a massive workforce, the growing reluctance among a section of BLOs has become a matter of serious concern for the poll authorities.

Kamalika Sengupta

Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East...Read More

Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East...

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