lok-sabha-elections

Updated: Mar 12, 2019 15:50 IST

The photographs of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have been removed from the government offices and institutions in Shahjahanpur district of the state. This was done in accordance with the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections that came into effect on Sunday with the announcement of the poll schedule by the Election Commission.

The pictures of PM Modi and CM Adityanath as well as those of the urban development minister Suresh Khanna were found to be adorning the office of the Shahjahanpur district panchayat president Ajay Pratap. Around 24 hours after the model code of conduct came into effect, the pictures were removed from the district panchayat president’s office.

The Election Commission announced the schedule for the Lok Sabha polls two days ago which effectively clips the powers of the government with regard to announcing new policy decisions. Further, the administration has to act in conformity the directions of the poll body. This was why the the photographs of PM Modi and CM Adityanath were removed from the government offices including those of the district magistrate and the circle officer.

Deputy district election officer and additional district magistrate Narendra Singh said the political parties have to remove all kinds of publicity materials from the government offices within 24 hours of the model code of conduct coming into effect. The photographs of the prime minister and the chief ministers are considered publicity materials of the ruling parties.