Bhubaneswar: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha has raised concerns over the alleged failure of the state government to remove posters, hoardings, and banners from public spaces in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, despite the enforcement of the model code of conduct (MCC) for the upcoming elections. Accusing the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) of flouting electoral guidelines, a delegation led by state party vice-president Lekhashree Samantsinghar visited the office of the Chief Electoral Officer to lodge a formal complaint.
The BJP delegation submitted a complaint along with pictorial evidence, asserting that posters highlighting various government schemes such as Jaga Mission and Mukta Yojana are still prominently displayed at the BJD’s ward offices in the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC). Additionally, they alleged that the BJD has been actively promoting its “Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha” program in rural areas, contravening the directives of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
According to Samantsinghar, the ECI has explicitly stated that all government advertisements displayed in public spaces should be removed immediately upon the enforcement of the model code of conduct following the declaration of the poll schedule. Despite this, the BJP claims that large hoardings featuring the Chief Minister’s image alongside party symbols and slogans highlighting various initiatives are still visible in many locations.
The BJP leader emphasized that the party provided comprehensive evidence to the Chief Electoral Officer, detailing the locations where such advertisements remain displayed. Assurances were reportedly given by the CEO to take necessary actions promptly.
The allegations raised by the BJP underscore the heightened scrutiny surrounding compliance with electoral norms as the state gears up for elections. The enforcement of the model code of conduct aims to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates, prohibiting any form of undue influence or advantage.
The Electoral Authorities are expected to conduct thorough investigations into the complaint lodged by the BJP and take appropriate measures to address any violations of the model code of conduct. As political tensions escalate in the run-up to the elections, the impartiality and integrity of the electoral process remain paramount, requiring strict adherence to established guidelines and regulations.
