The order was issued following a complaint lodged by the State Congress, official sources said on Tuesday.

Use of national symbols by politicians or political parties is tantamount to violation of election norms.

West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Pravin Bakshi, said a written complaint was made by Congress against the use of the national symbol and also a few lines mentioning to the “Constitution of India”.

“It violates the allotment of symbols order and misuse of the government symbol since no political party or candidate can use them during elections. Only the government officials are allowed to use the emblem,” said Bakshi.

Most of the posters had come up in various parts of Garo Hills where the NPP is contesting the February 23 elections and it was most noticeable in the Dadenggre civil sub-division where several pictures and calendars were distributed ahead of the poll announcement in January.

“We have received an order to remove the posters and banners containing the picture with the national symbol and take necessary action since it is a misuse of the national emblem and violation of the National Emblem Act,” informed Sub-divisional officer (Civil) and returning officer for Dadenggre D D Shira while speaking to The Shillong Times.

source:http://www.northeasttoday.in