West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday raised sharp concerns over the recent deaths of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and staff associated with the Special Integrated Revision (SIR) process, questioning the way the exercise has been carried out across several states.
Speaking to reporters, Banerjee said she had detailed records of every case, including deaths by suicide and those linked to trauma. “I cannot say anything without responsibility. I have the entire record of who died by suicide and who died due to stress. Several people are still losing their lives. This is extremely alarming,” she said.
The Chief Minister alleged that BLOs in multiple states—including Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan—were working under severe pressure. “Who is responsible for the BLOs who died in these states? What was the urgency behind implementing this exercise in such a hurry?” Banerjee asked.
Accusing authorities of intimidation tactics, she claimed that officials involved in the process were being threatened with jail or suspension if they failed to comply. “They are told their jobs will be taken away. But I want to ask—how long will your job last? Democracy will stay, but your job will not remain if this continues,” she remarked.
