Strong action will be taken against those who obstruct work of BLOs, don't spread fake news: Rathan Kelkar 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Electoral Officer Rathan Kelkar said that the Election Commission alone will have control over those appointed as Booth Level Officers (BLO). He said that BLOs are appointed as per the Constitution and that strict action will be taken against anyone who obstructs their work. He added that several districts have reported complaints, including instances of fake news and social media campaigns targeting BLOs who are carrying out their work effectively.

"District collectors have been instructed to register cases under Section 121 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against those who obstruct BLOs. The offence can lead to imprisonment of up to ten years. Strong action will also be taken against those involved in cyberattacks. Police have been directed to assist BLOs. More than 97% of enumeration forms have already been distributed, and five lakh forms have been digitised," Rathan Kelkar said.

"To ensure the smooth functioning of SIR activities, BLOs have been directed to convene meetings with booth-level agents (BLAs) nominated by recognised political parties. This is to ensure maximum accuracy and transparency in the work and to avoid future complaints. All political parties must actively participate in these meetings. BLAs may collect up to 50 forms per day and hand them over to the BLOs," Kelkar added.