Pune Municipal Administration Initiates Removal of Political Banners and Flags Following Lok Sabha Election Code of Conduct

Pune, 16th March 2024: In compliance with the announcement of the code of conduct for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the municipal administration in Pune has commenced efforts to dismantle political banners and party flags adorning the cityscape. Authorities have set a deadline for the completion of this operation by tomorrow evening, aiming to restore civic aesthetics amidst the fervor of electioneering.

The urban landscape of Pune has been inundated with flexes bearing the images of political office bearers and aspiring candidates, strategically positioned at intersections and major thoroughfares to disseminate propaganda. In response to directives from the Election Commission, teams have been mobilized across 15 ward offices to execute this task following the implementation of the Code of Conduct for Lok Sabha Elections.

The initiative faced a minor setback as municipal employees were on leave on Saturday, with the Municipal Corporation closed for business. Nonetheless, authorities swiftly rallied these personnel and initiated action across their designated jurisdictions. The operation spans diverse areas including Peth areas, Kothrud, Baner Balewadi, Balajinagar, Katraj, Dhankawadi, Bibvewadi, Hadapsar, Nagar Road, among others.

As the code of conduct took effect, a wave of compliance swept through political circles, prompting office bearers, candidates, and affiliated entities to voluntarily dismantle their banners, flexes, and signboards.

Santosh Warule, Deputy Commissioner, affirmed, “This action will be completed by Sunday evening. Action will be taken against those found in violation of placing flexes or banners without prior permission from the Commission during the Code of Conduct period.”