Delhi HC Questions ECI on Mandatory SIR Duty for Teachers
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Delhi High Court has questioned the Election Commission of India (ECI) over its order compelling government school teachers to serve as booth level officers (BLOs) and enumeration staff for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The court observed that such assignments should be voluntary, not mandatory, and raised concerns about the impact on students' education.
Background
The ECI issued a July 14 order requisitioning government school teachers in Delhi for SIR-related duties. A petition challenged this, arguing that it withdrew entire teaching staff during school hours, affecting education. The court is examining the ECI's authority under Article 324 and the Representation of the People Act.
Key facts
Delhi High Court bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia heard the case on July 25, 2026.
The court questioned whether ECI's instructions can be mandatory, noting teachers are not ECI employees.
The court observed that teachers need rest and assignments should be voluntary, not compulsory.
ECI's July 14 notice referred to teachers as 'volunteers', but the court noted non-compliance is punishable.
Section 13B of the Representation of the People Act empowers electoral registration officers to requisition staff.
Supreme Court judgments may limit the power to compel teachers for election duties.
The petition was filed by advocates Rajesh Gogna and Ashok Aggarwal challenging the ECI order.
The petition claimed entire teaching staff was withdrawn, leaving classes to guest teachers or teachers from unrelated subjects.
The court is examining the ECI's authority under Article 324 of the Constitution.
Prelims pointers
- Delhi High Court
- Election Commission of India (ECI)
- Booth Level Officer (BLO)
- Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls
- Representation of the People Act, 1951 - Section 13B
- Article 324 of the Constitution
- Article 226 (writ jurisdiction of High Courts)
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Role of Election Commission and its powers under Article 324; judicial review of ECI orders.
- GS2 Polity: Fundamental rights of teachers vs. election duties; right to education.
- GS2 Polity: Balance between election preparedness and disruption of education.
- GS2 Polity: Doctrine of proportionality and voluntary service in election work.