Overview

• Deputy Election Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti will chair an October 8 review with the CEO’s office, with district officials joining virtually, followed by district visits on October 9.
• All District Magistrates have been directed to submit detailed reports on BLO recruitment by October 8 after nearly 4,500 complaints were received.
• Initial CEO findings indicate about 4,500 contractual employees were appointed as BLOs for roughly 2,000 booths without the required concurrence from the CEO’s office.
• ECI guidelines prioritize permanent Group-C staff and state school teachers for BLO roles, allowing contractual hires only when justified and pre-approved.
• District officials who cleared contested selections may have to explain their actions and face disciplinary steps, while the BJP alleges politically influenced appointments.