15,653 posters, 7,511 banners removed in Punjab post MCC enforcement: Sibin C

Punjab’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Sibin C, today held a press conference regarding the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 at his office in sector 17. On this occasion, he expressed the commitment of his office to implement the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in letter and spirit in the state so as to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.

Divulging details, he pointed out that 24,433 Wall Writings, 15,653 Posters, 7,511 Banners, and 23,916 Defacements on Property have been removed across the state from March 16 to March 18, 2024.

He emphasized that to prevent the misuse of muscle and money power, elaborate efforts have been undertaken.

Replying to a query, he said 25 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed and additional deployments would be made based on threat assessment. A robust seizure management system has been implemented, resulting in seizures worth 113.45 crores since 1st March 2024, he added.

He further said that 119 complaints have been received via C-Vigil, with 86 found valid and addressed. CCTV cameras have been installed at inter-state checkpoints, and flying squads equipped with necessary tools have been deployed at inter-district checkpoints.

Sibin C noted that out of 24,433 polling stations in the state, 2,416 have been identified as critical till now, warranting additional security measures.