Jaipur: Candidates contesting Rajasthan’s urban local body elections could face a double whammy for failing to remove unauthorised posters, banners and hoardings, with the State Election Commission (SEC) warning that their removal costs may be added to election expenditure and overspending could lead to disqualification from future polls.SEC has directed candidates to immediately remove campaign material put up at public places, warning that continued violations could attract action under the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the Rajasthan Sampatti Virupan Nivaran Adhiniyam, 2006.More than 1.25 lakh posters, banners and hoardings have been removed across the state since the MCC came into force on Aug 19, the commission said. Despite repeated directions, campaign material continues to be found on roads, intersections, govt buildings and other public spaces.The commission has also prohibited campaign materials on electricity poles, govt walls, roads and intersections. Posters or flags cannot be placed on private property without the owner’s written permission.The expenditure limits for candidates have been increased this year. Nagar Nigam candidates can spend up to Rs 3.5 lakh, while the limits for Nagar Parishad and Nagar Palika candidates are Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 1.5 lakh respectively.Candidates are required to submit their election expenditure statements within 15 days of declaration of results.SEC has directed expenditure observers and district collectors to issue notices and warnings to violators and ensure prompt removal of unauthorised campaign materials.Officials said candidates must also factor in any expenditure incurred by authorities for removing material put up in violation of election rules.
