To,

Hon’ble
Chief Election Commissioner
Election Commission of India,

Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road,

New Delhi 110001

Subject-Proposal for Revision of Compensation from Rs 6000/- per year to Rs 36000/- per year and the  coverage of  Mediclaim Policy for Booth Level Officers.

Reference-

1.ECI/PN/46/2015 DATED 10.07.2015

 2.ECI/218/6/2019 DATED 10.04.2019 

Hon’ble Sir’s,

1. I am writing this request letter on behalf of Booth Level Officers from all part of India.As a concerned citizen who values the immense contribution of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in conducting free and fair elections across our vast nation. These officers often work under challenging conditions to ensure the democratic process is upheld.

2. Booth Level Officer (BLO) is a local Government/Semi-Government official, familiar with the local electors and generally a voter in the same polling area who assists in updating the roll using his local knowledge. In fact, BLO is a representative of Election Commission of India (ECI) at the grass-root level who plays a pivotal role in the process of roll revision and collecting actual field information with regard to the roll corresponding to the polling area assigned to him.Under Section 13B (2) of Representation of People Act, 1950, BLOs are appointed from amongst the officers of the Govt. /Semi Govt. /Local Bodies. Generally, one BLO is responsible for one part of the electoral roll. From August, 2006 the Commission has decided to introduce the concept of appointing BLOs who would be accountable for ensuring the fidelity of electoral roll. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are integral to the electoral process in India, serving as the foundation of the electoral roll system. They are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the electoral rolls, which are crucial for conducting free and fair elections. Here’s why BLOs are often referred to as the “heart” of the electoral roll:

Local Knowledge: BLOs are usually local government or semi-government officials who are familiar with the local electorate and can use their knowledge to update the electoral roll accurately.
Field Work: They conduct house-to-house visits to verify voter details, identify discrepancies, and update the electoral roll with accurate information.
Voter Assistance: BLOs assist eligible citizens in becoming voters by providing forms for addition, deletion, and correction of entries in the electoral roll.Accountability: Since 2006, BLOs have been accountable for the fidelity of the electoral roll, making them custodians at the polling booth level.

Direct Distribution: They are responsible for the direct distribution of voter identification slips, which has increased voter confidence in the election process.
SVEEP Activities: BLOs engage in Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities like street plays and dramas to increase voter awareness and participation.
The role of BLOs extends beyond administrative duties; they nurture the roots of democracy by ensuring that every eligible voter is accounted for and that the electoral rolls are a true reflection of the electorate. Their work is pivotal in maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process.

3. That,I am writing to propose a revision in the compensation and coverage of Mediclaim policy for Booth Level Officers (BLOs) who are the backbone of our electoral process, especially those serving in challenging conditions.The current remuneration does not adequately reflect the risks and hardships faced by these officers. An increase in compensation would not only provide them with the financial support they deserve but also serve as a morale booster. That,the current compensation of Rs 6,000 per annum as per ECI notificatio No ECI/PN/46/2015 DATED 10.07.2015 does not commensurate with the dedication and risks involved in their duties.The supervisor are getting Rs 6000/- more which we think is not fair because supervisors are working in the air condition offices, whereas the Booth Level Officers are working in the extreme condition.The work of Booth Level Officers is very exhaustive in nature, compare with the work of the Supervisors. We propose an increase to Rs 36,000 per annum, which I believe is a fair reflection of their invaluable service and the difficult conditions under which they operate.

Additionally, I strongly advocate for a comprehensive Mediclaim policy that covers all BLOs while on duty.As per ECI notification No 218/6/2019-EPS 10.04.2019, request you to please go through point 2(b) the payment of exgratia compensation for the unofortunate even of death,due to violent act and permanent disabilty would applied only from the declaration of the election,but I would like to bring to your notice that Booth Level officers are appointed before the declaration of the Loksabha and Vidhansabha election.Its a kind request to please have a review on the same.The policy should provide adequate coverage and ensure that BLOs can perform their responsibilities without the worry of potential financial burdens due to health-related issues arising from their service.

I trust that the Election Commission will consider this proposal earnestly and recognize the need for such reforms. These changes will not only provide much-needed financial relief but also reinforce the commitment of our BLOs towards conducting free, fair, and smooth elections.The role of BLOs is pivotal in the electoral process, and it is our duty to support them in every possible way. I trust that the Election Commission will take prompt and favorable action regarding this matter.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your response and the implementation of measures that will strengthen the support for our Booth Level Officers.

 

Yours Sincerely

Shri Suresh Shinde

  

 

 

 

 Shri Suresh R. Shinde