EC orders removal of posters, banners lauding Mamata govt

The Election Commission tonight 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 are in West Bengal today 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.
Referring to the guidelines on election manifesto for
political parties and candidates, the Commission reminded the two parties of section 3, which says that "in the interest of transparency, level-playing field and credibility of promises, it is expected that the manifesto also reflects the rationale for the promises and broadly indicate the ways and means to meet the financial requirement for it.
"Trust of voters should be sought only on those promises which are possible to be fulfilled."

Parties in Tamil Nadu are known to promise things like colour TV, mixer grinder, ceiling fans and free rice in their election manifestos.