Irfan Ansari’s ‘Lock the BLO Inside’ Line Sparks Controversy, Says He Meant to Protect BLOs

Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari has triggered a fresh political row with his remarks on the Election Commission’s proposed Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. His statement advising people to “lock the BLO inside the house” if a Booth Level Officer visits has drawn criticism from several quarters.

Speaking with The Statesman, Ansari defended his words and said his warning was aimed at safeguarding vulnerable families who lack essential documents.

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Ansari said that a large number of Adivasi, Dalit and economically weak households do not possess land papers, Aadhaar cards or other identity documents. According to him, such communities face the highest risk of exclusion during SIR-related verification. “People in rural areas don’t always have documents. If they are called repeatedly and still can’t produce papers, getting their names added back becomes difficult. They may end up cut off from key services,” he said.

The minister also clarified his controversial line on locking BLOs inside a house. He said the comment had been taken out of context and that he was referring to the stress and pressure faced by field officers. “BLOs are often pushed so hard that some reach a point of breakdown. My point was about their safety. If a BLO is under distress, keep them secure. I will come myself, help them out and ensure their mental well-being,” he said.

Ansari accused the BJP of using revision exercises in other states to target certain communities. He claimed that in Bihar “65 lakh names were removed and 22 lakh new names were added,” raising concerns about identity and citizenship for large groups of people.

When asked whether his view reflected the official position of the Jharkhand government, Ansari said it was his personal assessment. He added that the Congress also shares similar concerns and does not support removing names from electoral rolls. “Our approach is to include people, not exclude them,” he said.

SIR has not yet begun in Jharkhand, but the minister’s remarks have already deepened public anxiety and political debate. The Election Commission has not issued a response to the controversy so far.