Discrepancies in remuneration for poll officers spark debates

 Hyderabad: Disparities in remuneration to polling officers for rendering similar roles in the recent Assembly elections across districts have triggered concerns about fairness and equity. 

Many on polling duty said that they had observed significant variations when it came to payments, including for presiding officers (PO) and assistant presiding officers (APO).

Rangareddy district, for instance, stands out with a payment of Rs 2,400 to PO and APO positions, while Medchal district paid Rs 2,150 to the two positions; Narayanpet district allotted a significantly lower Rs 1,550; Chevella and Huzurabad Rs 2,250. At Jangaon it was Rs 1,550 for PO and APOs but only Rs 900 for other polling officers (OPO). At Mahbubabad, it was Rs 1,950 for PO and APOs and Rs 1,200 for OPOs.

Nalgonda district exposes the disparities-APOs received Rs 1,150, POs Rs 1,550 and OPOs a mere Rs 900.

Even trainees expressed disappointment as the actual compensation was way below their expectations. They said that unlike on the earlier occasion, this time they had to pay for their transportation to the distribution centres. Free bus services were provided initially but the same has been discontinued.

The situation turned worse on the day of elections, as they were not entitled to even basic facilities like meals and accommodation.

"Ensuring a fair and decent payment and providing the right facilities are crucial to keep people motivated for taking up election duty," observed a polling officer in Habsiguda.