With next general election approaching fast, the Election Commissioner of India has asked the State Government to shift the block development officers (BDOs) who have served three years or more in his or her home districts.
Since the BDOs play a key role in delivery of services of the Government, they are in a position to influence the voters. Free and fair election would not be possible if they continue to serve in the same districts for more than three years.
Ideally, a Government officer should continue in a particular place of posting for at least three years for better delivery of services. However, hardly any officer is allowed to enjoy a stint of two years in a particular place due to political reasons.
Government officers are transferred on administrative grounds without any reason or rhyme. The frequent transfer and posting of field level officials have a negative impact on execution of Government programmes, said sources in the Government.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is particularly interested in the length of service period of BDOs in a block and their home districts.
The ECI has asked the State Government to submit a report on BDOs who have worked three years or are going to complete three out of four years in their home districts in any other capacity including tehsildar, revenue officer and deputy collector as on December 31, 2013.