After Mothabari, Gai Ghat BLO surrounded by angry voters over missing names

Following the unrest in Mothabari, Malda, tensions escalated in Gai Ghat, North 24 Parganas, when a Booth Level Officer (BLO), Nomita Das, was surrounded by voters whose names were missing from the electoral list. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon in Panchshila, Gaighata Assembly constituency. Frightened by the confrontation, Das alerted the authorities, prompting immediate police intervention to ensure her safe rescue.

Nomita Das, an Anganwadi worker serving as BLO at booth number 38 with 872 registered voters, faced protests after several names were omitted from the final voter list. Some protesters accused her of manipulating the list for monetary gain or political purposes. Reports indicate that the villagers surrounded her while she was returning home, creating a tense situation that could have escalated without swift action.

Police and central forces quickly arrived at the scene following a call from the Assistant Returning Officer. The authorities successfully escorted Das to safety, preventing further escalation. The BLO, who has consistently followed Election Commission instructions, expressed fear over future fieldwork, stating, “Many people surrounded me near Amtala, accusing me of taking money and questioning my party affiliation. I got very scared and called the office. Then the police came and rescued me.”

Officials said prompt intervention prevented a serious incident. Investigations into the protest are ongoing, and the administration has announced increased monitoring of field staff to safeguard BLOs ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections. The Gai Ghat episode highlights how voter dissatisfaction, misunderstandings, and rumors can place election personnel at risk even before polling begins.