EC warns Bengal over 'laxity' in poll code enforcement

Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi on Tuesday said there was "laxity" on the part of some officials in enforcing the model code of conduct ahead of the West Bengal assembly polls, and warned that the poll panel will take a "serious view" if violations were not rectified within the next two days.

Zaidi directed that all flags, banners, hoardings and photographs displayed on government buildings, public transport and bridges in violation of the model code of conduct will have to be removed within the time frame.

Addressing mediapersons, Zaidi said the laxity was noted particularly in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation region, besides areas under other municipal corporations.

"The Commission has noted some laxity in the enforcement of the model code of conduct (MCC) in some areas and by some officials. We have taken note of it. We have directed those officials, particularly Kolkata Municipal Corporation and other municipal corporation areas where the laxity with regards to MCC was noted," Zaidi said.

"There were flags, hoardings and photographs being displayed on public transport, buildings, bridges, and we have given 48 hours to officials to remove such flags, banners, hoardings etc. which have been displayed in violation of MCC, failing which the Commission will take a very serious view."