'Unauthorised' hoardings, banners mushroom as civic body elections draw near

LUDHIANA: As the municipal corporation (MC) elections draw close, 'unauthorised' hoardings and banners from across parties have started to mushroom in the city.

- Sukhpreet Singh

The development comes despite the model code of conduct being in force and the MC has failed to take any major action over the matter.

According to the available information, no major challans or fines have been slapped on any of the political parties in this regard.

The elections are scheduled on December 21.

Residents have raised concerns over what they say is 'blatant disregard' of rules and the lack of enforcement by authorities.

The worst-hit areas include Pakhowal road, BRS Nagar, Jawahar Nagar Camp, Haibowal, Civil Lines, Field Ganj, Gill Road, Dugri, Basti Jodewal and Jamalpur, among others.

Residents say the banners have even covered signboards, meant to guide commuters.

They say the signboards are barely visible, causing difficulties for commuters.

An MC official, requesting anonymity, said they are not taking action due to 'political pressure'.