Political News

Voting-roll revision under SIR has triggered deep unrest: thousands of BLO Adhikar Raksha Committee workers (Booth-Level Officers) staged protests, demanding relief from alleged overwork, stress-related deaths, and delays in the revision schedule.The Times of IndiaOn 1 Dec 2025, a protest outside the office of the state Chief Electoral Officer in Kolkata turned volatile — barricades were broken as protesters clashed with police when a BJP delegation led by Suvendu Adhikari arrived to submit a memorandum.The Times of IndiaOpposition parties accuse state authorities of “voter-list manipulation and intimidation.” The BJP has called for an audit and even demanded intervention from the central election authority, alleging irregularities such as duplicate or bogus entries and undue pressure on BLOs.The Times of IndiaIn response, the state government recently announced compensation for the families of 39 people (including BLOs) who died reportedly due to stress during the SIR work, and compensation for those hospitalised — highlighting how severe the administrative fallout has become.

Senior BJP representatives in Kolkata have claimed that opposition workers face administrative pressure and restrictions during political activities. The party has demanded greater transparency and equal campaigning opportunities. The state government, however, dismisses these claims, arguing that law enforcement actions are based solely on maintaining public order.