Election Commission orders removal of posters, banners lauding Mamata Banerjee govt

The Election Commission last night ordered "immediate removal" of all hoardings and banners across West Bengal depicting the achievements of the Mamata Banerjee government and asked officials to ensure compliance with its orders.

The Election Commission took the decision in Kolkata after meeting representatives of political parties. The CEC and fellow Election Commissioners were in West Bengal yesterday to review the preparedness for the six-phased assembly elections in the state beginning April 4.

Sources said it was pointed out to the poll panel that various government buildings were still displaying hoardings and banners showing the achievements of the Trinamool Congress dispensation.

Though the model code of conduct came into force on March 4 following the announcement of polls, certain officials were reluctant to take action, they said.

Now the EC has asked officials to take steps to remove banners and hoardings which violate the provisions of the model code, sources said.