Odisha BJP Unit Meets State CEO Over 'Govt Hoardings' In Public Places, Demands Action

Bhubaneswar, Mar 21: A delegation of the BJP’s Odisha unit, led by vice-president Lekhashree Samantasinghar, filed a complaint with the State’s chief electoral officer (CEO) here on Thursday accusing the State government of failing to remove posters and banners from public places in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack despite the election model code of conduct (MCC) coming into force.

According to sources, the BJP delegation submitted the complaint along with pictorial evidence of their allegations.

“The Election Commission of India (ECI) has already mandated the removal of all government advertisements displayed in public places upon the announcement of poll dates,” Samantasinghar said.

The BJP leader alleged that large hoardings of the ruling party, featuring the Chief Minister’s images along with party symbols and slogans, are still prominently displayed.

The BJP alleged that the civic authorities in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack have failed to take action to remove these posters and hoardings, which constitutes a clear violation of the model code of conduct.

Samantasinghar added that the chief electoral officer expressed surprise at the situation and requested details of the locations where such advertisements are still displayed.

The CEO assured the BJP delegation that necessary action would be taken to remove all such advertisements promptly.

Also Read: Elections 2024: Know Date Of Voting, Constituencies In Odisha

Odisha will vote in the Lok Sabha elections and Assembly polls, which are being held simultaneously, in four phases. The polling will be held on May 13, 20, 25 and June 1.

The votes will be counted with the rest of the country on June 4.