Mumbai, India — A recent complaint submitted to the National Human Rights Commission has raised serious concerns about the working conditions for electoral officials engaged in the ongoing intensive revision of electoral rolls. According to the complaint, the extreme pressure and demanding workload have led to multiple tragic incidents, including cardiac arrests and even deaths among booth-level officers (BLOs) across several states.
The complaint, filed by Mumbai attorney Hitendra D. Gandhi, highlights alarming reports from states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Kerala. It warns that these conditions have created a “moment of deep constitutional danger,” with many voters finding their names inexplicably missing from the electoral rolls. Such discrepancies could undermine the democratic process.
Investigations cited in the complaint reveal a disturbing trend. BLOs, often school teachers or clerks tasked with updating voter information, are reportedly succumbing to the pressures associated with their responsibilities. The complaint notes that at least 15 of these officials have died within a mere 19 days, some due to suicides, while others suffered fatal heart attacks or accidents on duty.
The document calls for the NHRC to take immediate notice under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993, urging swift action by the Election Commission of India and relevant state authorities. It demands reports on health incidents among officials, the circumstances surrounding their deaths, and the alarming rate of deletions from electoral lists. Immediate reforms are recommended, including humane limits on work hours, exemptions for officials in high-risk categories, and assurances against punitive suspensions.
Moreover, the complaint advocates for psychological and medical support services for affected personnel, as well as compensation for the families of those lost. It proposes the development of national guidelines to ensure that the revision process complies with human rights standards and an independent audit to review all changes to the electoral rolls during the current revision phase.
The complaint underscores systemic negligence in managing the SIR process, arguing that the existing practices could lead to significant violations of human rights. It warns that such coercive actions and the resultant disenfranchisement directly infringe upon individuals’ rights to life, dignity, and democratic engagement.
With the electoral process under such scrutiny, it is vital for authorities to address these concerns, ensuring not only the integrity of the electoral rolls but also the safety and well-being of those entrusted with safeguarding the democratic process. As this situation develops, observers will be closely monitoring the response from both the electoral authorities and the human rights commission.