Uttar Pradesh BLO Dies by Suicide, Cites SIR Work Pressure; Leaves Behind Heartbreaking Video Message

The video, now part of the police investigation, underscores the extreme psychological strain under which he had been working. Police said a case has been registered and further inquiries are underway. “We are examining the note, the video, and statements from family members. The exact sequence of circumstances will be established after a detailed probe,” an officer said.

Singh’s death comes amid rising concerns over the impact of the SIR exercise on ground-level election workers across multiple states. In West Bengal, the revision drive has already triggered political confrontation after reports emerged of BLOs collapsing during field duty, allegedly due to overwork and inadequate training. According to various local accounts, close to 40 deaths - including BLOs and citizens involved in documentation processes - have been linked to the SIR exercise across districts, though official figures remain contested. At least 4 BLOs have died in West Bengal - two died by suicide accusing the ECI - families of all four have alleged ‘inhuman’ work pressure from ECI as the reason behind their deaths.

Similar reports of stress-linked health emergencies, accidents and sudden collapses among officials have also surfaced from states such as Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Opposition parties have accused the Election Commission of rushing the revision exercise without adequate manpower or logistical preparedness, while government-affiliated groups argue that the clean-up of electoral rolls is essential ahead of the upcoming elections.

Back in Moradabad, Singh’s family is demanding accountability and compensation. Relatives say he was working long hours, often leaving home before sunrise and returning late at night, driven by fear of departmental action for delays. “He kept saying the pressure was too much,” a family member said. The district administration has assured a thorough investigation and said the matter will be conveyed to the Election Commission.