Ranchi: With the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls entering its final phase, booth level officers (BLOs) across the state said the exercise has added to their workload, requiring them to put in months of work alongside their regular govt duties.BLOs said the exercise involved a range of tasks, beginning with household surveys and enumeration and extending to the distribution and collection of forms, digitisation of records, installation of BLO stickers, participation in review meetings and camps, and coordination with political party representatives.They were also required to issue hearing notices and attend hearings during the claims and objections process, which has now been extended till Sept 30. “It was one task after another,” said a BLO, requesting anonymity.Several BLOs said they had found it difficult to balance SIR-related work with their routine responsibilities. Some also claimed they had to arrange basic logistical facilities, including chairs and tables, to conduct revision related activities in their areas.The workload increased further during the claims and objections period, as BLOs dealt with applications seeking inclusion, corrections and other changes in the electoral rolls.Despite the pressure, BLOs said locals often supported them by providing refreshments and meals during long working hours.BLOs also raised concerns over the delay in the additional remuneration announced for the exercise. Chief electoral officer K Ravi Kumar said the payment process was under way and assured them that the amount would be released soon.“The Election Commission pays BLOs Rs 12,000 annually for their regular duties. In addition, each BLO is entitled to Rs 6,000 for SIR-related work,” Kumar said.With the revision nearing completion, BLOs said they hoped the pending payment would be released without further delay.
