BLOs in Tamil Nadu Report Stress, Poor Working Conditions During SIR Work
Booth Level Officers (BLOs) across Tamil Nadu have raised serious concerns about the intense workload and difficult conditions they face while carrying out tasks under the State Information Resource (SIR) initiative. Many BLOs, most of whom are women, say the targets given to them are unrealistic and require long hours of fieldwork, often causing them to miss meals and work without access to basic facilities such as toilets. They describe the assignment as a race against time, as they struggle to balance SIR duties with their regular jobs and family responsibilities. Several BLOs reported walking long distances to verify voter details, sometimes in remote or poorly connected areas, adding to their physical strain. They have urged authorities to revise deadlines, provide logistical support, and ensure humane working conditions. The growing complaints highlight the need for systemic reforms and better planning to reduce stress on grassroots electoral staff.
