Election Commission Demands Action in West Bengal Ahead of Polls

The Election Commission has instructed the West Bengal chief secretary to comply with directives by February 17, including enhanced pay for BLOs and filing FIRs against officials who violated norms during the ongoing SIR process. The EC has criticized the delay in releasing increased honorariums approved earlier.

The Election Commission has issued a stern directive to the chief secretary of West Bengal, demanding compliance with key directives by February 17. This includes the disbursement of enhanced remunerations to Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and filing of FIRs against officials accused of violating norms during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.

In a crucial meeting at Nirvachan Sadan, Chief Secretary Nandini Chakravarty was tasked to meet these deadlines as the state prepares for assembly elections in the coming months. The EC highlighted its disapproval over the state's failure to implement the approved salary hikes for BLOs and supervisors.

Other significant issues discussed were the EC's insistence on FIRs against four officials who had allegedly flouted rules during the SIR. Despite earlier instructions, these officers faced suspensions and departmental proceedings, but no criminal complaints had been filed. The EC's demand underscores the urgency of these actions as the election season approaches.

(With inputs from agencies.)