NewKerala.com

BJP Counters Mamata: Why ECI's Data-Entry Hiring Isn't Bengal-Specific

The BJP has responded to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's objections about ECI hiring in West Bengal. Party leader Amit Malviya clarified that the data-entry operator appointments follow the same nationwide pattern used during electoral revisions. He questioned why the Chief Minister was objecting now when similar procedures were followed in Bihar. The BJP maintains these hiring practices ensure fairness and equal opportunity in the electoral process.

Key Points: BJP Responds to Mamata Banerjee ECI Hiring Objections

  • BJP confirms ECI hiring follows same procedure used in Bihar revision earlier this year
  • Malviya questions timing of objections amid I-PAC agency infiltration claims
  • Similar polling stations in private complexes already exist in Delhi and other states
  • Hiring process follows established financial rules ensuring fairness and equal opportunity
3 min read

ECI's data-entry hiring not Bengal-specific, followed nationwide: BJP counters CM Mamata's objections

BJP clarifies ECI's data-entry operator hiring follows nationwide pattern during electoral revision, countering CM Mamata Banerjee's state-specific objections amid election preparations.

"So before pointing fingers, please make public the process you used to select DEOs and BSK operators. - Amit Malviya"

Kolkata, Nov 24

The Election Commission of India (ECI)'s proposal for hiring 1, 000 data-entry operators and 50 software developers for a period of one year amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal is not exclusive to the state but is being followed in all states and Union Territories where a similar revision exercise is currently underway, claimed the BJP on Monday.

The BJP's reaction came in response to a letter earlier in the day from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, in which she objected to the commission's request for proposal for hiring 1,000 data-entry operators and 50 software developers in West Bengal for a year.

BJP's Information Technology Cell chief and the party's central observer for West Bengal, Amit Malviya, issued a social media statement reacting to the Chief Minister's letter. He reminded Mamata Banerjee that when the SIR was conducted in Bihar earlier this year, similar appointments were made there as well, and that the same system is being followed in other states and Union Territories where SIR is proceeding simultaneously with that in West Bengal.

According to Malviya, it was astonishing that the Chief Minister was objecting to such appointments by the commission at a time when, he claimed, it was widely known that one of the Trinamool Congress' contracted agencies had penetrated multiple state government bodies, attended official meetings, and routinely meddled in administrative decisions.

"There are even allegations that members of this very agency were quietly appointed as DEOs and BSK staff," Malviya added. Although he did not name anyone, his indication was clearly towards the Prashant Kishor-founded Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), which has been strategising poll campaigns for the Trinamool Congress since the 2021 West Bengal assembly elections.

"So, before pointing fingers, please make public the process you used to select DEOs and BSK operators. If the CEO has issued a request for proposal today, he has done so exactly as per your own financial rules. You have no business screaming at him for following procedures created to ensure fairness and equal opportunity — principles you have never demonstrated any respect for," Malviya's social media statement read.

On the Chief Minister's objection to the ECI's proposal for setting up polling stations inside private housing complexes for the crucial West Bengal assembly polls scheduled next year, Malviya pointed out that any premises can be designated a polling station as long as it ensures ease of voting for all voters.

"Similar booths have been set up in high-rise buildings in Delhi and elsewhere. So why is it suddenly troubling you that the ECI is creating additional booths to make voting more convenient? No booths are being taken away from existing voters. So do explain: What exactly is upsetting you — the increase in voting access, or the collapse of the narrative you’re trying to build?" Malviya questioned.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone who works in IT, I can say that hiring data-entry operators for election work is absolutely necessary. Voter data management is crucial for free and fair elections. The opposition seems misplaced here.
R
Rohit P
Setting up polling stations in housing societies is actually a great idea! In Mumbai, we have this and it's so convenient for senior citizens and working professionals. Why oppose something that helps voters? 🤔
S
Sarah B
While I support transparency in election processes, I think both sides should focus on constructive dialogue rather than political point-scoring. The ECI's credibility is important for our democracy.
V
Vikram M
The mention of I-PAC involvement is concerning. If external agencies are influencing government decisions, that's a serious issue that needs investigation. Election integrity should be above politics. 🇮🇳
M
Michael C
Having observed Indian elections from outside, I must say the ECI generally maintains high standards. If this hiring follows established financial rules and national patterns, the objections seem politically motivated rather than procedural.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50