Panchkula Municipal Corporation Election Boards Defy Removal Norms, Sparking Public Concern
In Panchkula, a significant controversy has emerged as numerous information boards bearing the names and identities of former councillors and the ex-mayor continue to stand across the city, despite the Municipal Corporation (MC) tenure officially ending on January 5. This situation has persisted for over a month, directly contravening established MC regulations.
Violation of Municipal Norms and Election Protocols
According to strict MC norms, all boards related to elected representatives must be taken down immediately after their term concludes. This rule is designed to prevent any direct or indirect favoritism toward individuals or political parties, ensuring a level playing field in municipal governance. However, these signboards remain prominently visible along roadsides, outside residences, and within the wards previously represented by the former officials.
The continued presence of these boards has become a major topic of discussion in Panchkula, particularly as the election process has commenced with the delimitation of wards. Residents have expressed deep concern that these lingering displays could unduly influence public perception during the critical pre-election period, potentially skewing voter opinions and undermining democratic integrity.
Public Safety and Convenience Issues
Beyond electoral concerns, citizens have highlighted practical problems caused by these boards. Many of the displays include addresses of former councillors and political leaders, and they obstruct pedestrian movement in several areas, creating significant inconvenience and safety hazards. This has led to complaints about hindered access and potential risks for pedestrians navigating public spaces.
Citizens Welfare Association Demands Immediate Action
In response to this issue, members of the Citizens Welfare Association (CWA) have urgently called on authorities to take immediate action. The association has demanded that all such boards be removed from public spaces on a priority basis, emphasizing that this step is essential to ensure free, fair, transparent, and impartial MC elections in Panchkula.
The CWA's stance underscores the broader implications for municipal democracy and public trust. As the city prepares for upcoming elections, the removal of these boards is seen as a critical measure to uphold electoral integrity and maintain orderly public infrastructure.
This ongoing situation highlights the need for stricter enforcement of MC regulations and greater accountability in post-tenure procedures to prevent similar issues in the future.
