Guwahati: In a move aimed at boosting morale and recognising the efforts of election staff, the Election Commission of India has significantly enhanced remuneration for officials engaged in poll duties ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in five states. The revision comes as states including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry prepare to go to the polls next month. Officials said the decision is intended to ensure fair compensation for personnel who often work long hours under demanding conditions during the election process.
Also Read: Jungaon Villagers Threaten Poll Boycott Over Road, Water Crisis
Under the revised structure, presiding officers will now receive Rs 500 per day, up from Rs 350 earlier, with a total payout of Rs 2,000 for the assignment. Polling officers will get Rs 400 per day instead of Rs 250, amounting to Rs 1,600. Counting assistants will receive Rs 450 per day, while fourth-class staff at polling stations will be paid Rs 350 per day. The hike also extends to micro-observers, who will now receive a one-time payment of Rs 2,000, double the previous amount. Personnel engaged in call centres, control rooms, video monitoring and surveillance teams have also been included in the revised pay structure.
In a notable increase, the daily tiffin allowance for polling staff, police personnel and home guards has been raised from Rs 150 to Rs 500. Senior officials, including Deputy District Election Officers, will receive enhanced honorariums, while Central Armed Police Forces personnel will also benefit from higher compensation based on the duration of their deployment. Officials said the enhanced remuneration reflects the Commission’s acknowledgement of the crucial role played by election personnel in ensuring free, fair and smooth conduct of elections across the country.
