Punjab: Despite the Model Code of Conduct being implemented for the Lok Sabha elections, hoardings and posters of both the ruling and opposition parties are still dominating the city’s landscape.
The tour at various places in the city saw Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) banners depicting CM Bhagwant Mann and promoting his developmental efforts such as Sadak Surkhey Force (SSF), employment opportunities etc. were displayed in areas like Burlton Park, Maqsudan, Urban Estate. Phase II and Basti Bawa Games.
Additionally, flags and posters of all political parties adorn government and private buses, auto-rickshaws and roadside shops.
Similarly, BJP posters with pictures of local leaders and PM Narendra Modi are visible around Bank Enclave and Cheema Chowk. Local BJP leaders have also flooded the city with congratulatory messages and good wishes for the Holi festival, which is evident at 120 Feet Road and Rama Mandi.
Despite Election Commission directions, Punjab CM Mann’s photographs remain at the Aam Aadmi Clinic, although officials have assured that work to remove them is underway on a constituency basis.
According to the information received, four teams of the Municipal Corporation were patrolling to deal with defacement of public and private properties in compliance with the Model Code of Conduct.
MC assistant commissioner Rajesh Khokhar said these teams were deployed in four constituencies, West, Central, North and Cantt, and they have removed around 1,290 campaign materials from public areas in the last six days.
He said that the teams are visiting different areas in the four assembly constituencies every day to ensure complete compliance with the Model Code of Conduct.
Officials also urged the public to report such violations through the CVigil app launched by the Election Commission, citing its efficiency in addressing complaints within 100 minutes. Of the 35 complaints received, 28 have been resolved and these were mainly illegal hoardings or posters causing damage to public or private property, he said.
