In a stern move ahead of the municipal elections, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has announced that candidates who fail to clear fines for putting up unauthorized flex banners and hoardings will face cancellation of their nomination papers.
After the Ganesh festival, political posters and congratulatory flexes have mushroomed across the city, defacing public spaces and blocking visibility. Despite repeated clean-up drives, the illegal display of banners continues unabated. Taking serious note, Municipal Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Chaudhari recently ordered all zones to intensify action against offenders and ensure penalties are recovered.
As per NMC rules, a fine of ₹1,000 per flex is imposed on those responsible for putting them up. Many local leaders, however, have ignored the penalties. To curb this defiance, the civic body will now verify fine payments during the election nomination process.
“If a candidate fails to produce a ‘No Dues Certificate’ proving payment of flex fines, his or her nomination will be rejected outright,” an NMC official confirmed. The administration says the move aims to promote accountability and curb the misuse of public spaces during elections.
Residents have largely welcomed the step, calling it a necessary deterrent against political visual pollution. Yet, some allege that NMC imposes fines selectively. “Leaders put up several banners, but action is taken only for one,” said a resident from North Nagpur, demanding uniform enforcement.
The message from the NMC is clear — ignore flex rules, and you may lose your place on the ballot.
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