BJP hoardings at govt sites violate model code, alleges Cong

Rohtak, February 21Hoardings of the ruling party have been put up on the premises of the Rohtak Mini-Secretariat and several other public places, including sites of the Directorate of Public Relations (DPR), Haryana, despite the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in view of the municipal elections in the state.

The said hoardings bear images of the BJP's symbol, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and his appeal to the voters to vote in favour of the BJP's mayoral nominee.

Alleging violation of the model code as well as the Haryana Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1989, the Congress has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission in this regard.

In the complaint, Balraj Balle, the convener of the municipal elections committee of the Congress, has sought immediate removal of the said hoardings, action against those responsible for violating the Act and the model code and issuance of directions to check the recurrence of such violations in future.

Contacted for his comments, Bhupendra Singh, Nodal Officer (MCC), stated that the complaint lodged by the Congress was received and action was being taken on it.

"On receiving any complaint regarding the violation of the model code, our team verifies the allegation and takes prompt action --like removal of hoarding -- if the violation is established," he said, adding that the same procedure is followed on all complaints lodged by the ruling as well as opposition parties.

The nodal officer asserted that teams constituted for the purpose inspect the city round the clock and remove the publicity material put up at unauthorised locations even if no complaint has been lodged.