Overview On December 4, 2025 , the Supreme Court addressed the issue of distress among Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The court placed the responsibility on State governments to support BLOs who are unable to manage the workload, while ensuring the SIR process is not disrupted. The Election Commission (EC) is conducting the SIR across nine States and three Union Territories. Key Developments Supreme Court Directive: States must address hardships faced by BLOs and consider replacing those with specific reasons for exemption. Election Commission's Stand: The EC, represented by senior advocates, dismissed claims of excessive work pressure as exaggerated. Petitioners' Concerns: Advocates representing petitioners argued that the EC's timeline for SIR completion is unrealistic and puts undue pressure on BLOs. Allegations of Coercion: Concerns were raised about BLOs facing threats and criminal complaints for not meeting targets. Court's Focus: The court shifted the focus to the States, emphasizing that BLOs are State employees and their welfare is the State's responsibility. Detailed Analysis The Supreme Court's intervention highlights the critical role of BLOs in the electoral process and the challenges they face. The court's directive to State governments underscores the importance of providing adequate support and resources to BLOs to ensure the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls. The EC's perspective emphasizes the need to complete the SIR within the specified timeframe to prepare for upcoming elections, while petitioners argue for a more humane approach that considers the well-being of BLOs. Arguments Presented Election Commission: Each polling booth is limited to 1200 electors . BLOs have 37 days to complete enumeration work. High percentage of form distribution in states like Tamil Nadu (90%) and Uttar Pradesh (85%) . Petitioners: The EC's timeline is too short, creating undue pressure. Concerns about the accuracy of uploaded forms. Allegations of threats and criminal complaints against BLOs. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to GS2: Polity and Governance , specifically concerning elections and the role of the Election Commission. It also touches upon issues related to government policies and interventions for the welfare of government employees. Understanding the challenges faced by BLOs and the measures taken to address them is crucial for Mains questions on electoral reforms and governance. Important Facts Date of the Supreme Court hearing: December 4, 2025 States and UTs involved in the SIR: Nine States and three Union Territories Deadline for enumeration work: December 11, 2025 Number of electors per booth: 1200 Section of the Representation of the People Act mentioned: Section 32 of the Representation of the People Act of 1950