Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): The Haryana State Election Commissioner, Devinder Singh Kalyan, has issued a strict directive to enforce the Haryana Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1989, in light of the upcoming municipal and Panchayati Raj by-elections. Following the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct on April 13, 2026, the Commission has observed unauthorized posters, banners, and wall writings on public and private properties. Commissioner Kalyan emphasized that such activities not only violate the law but also mar the aesthetic appeal of the state during the election period.
Under Sections 3 and 3-A of the Act, defacing any property in public view—including government buildings, electricity poles, bus stands, and public statues—is a cognizable offence. The Commission clarified that using ink, chalk, paint, or any other material to mark these surfaces is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, pasting campaign materials on state transport buses and other public utility structures is entirely banned. Any illegal material will be removed by local authorities, and the cost of restoration will be recovered directly from the concerned candidate or political party as arrears of land revenue.
Guidelines for Candidates and Parties:
- Designated Zones: Candidates are permitted to display advertisements only in areas specifically earmarked by Executive Officers or Secretaries in urban areas and by BDPOs or Panchayat Officers in rural areas.
- Private Property: Written consent from the owner or occupier is mandatory for any display on private premises. Without this, the material will be removed within 24 hours of a complaint.
- Reporting Mechanisms: Property owners can report violations to the District Election Officer, Deputy Commissioner, or through the Commission’s dedicated flying squads.
- Liability: A candidate will be held personally responsible for any defacement done in their favour unless they can prove the act was committed without their knowledge or consent.
The State Election Commission has authorized flying squads to take immediate action against offenders. With polling scheduled for May 10, 2026, for seven municipal bodies and several Panchayati Raj posts, the administration aims to ensure a clean and fair electoral process. The Commission has urged all participants to cooperate in maintaining public order and protecting state infrastructure while engaging in their democratic campaigns.
