The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has launched an urgent, citywide operation to remove unauthorised political hoardings, banners, and signboards following the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct for the 2025–26 municipal elections. Municipal Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde directed all civic departments to complete the clearance within 48 hours, underscoring the priority of maintaining election compliance and civic order.
Teams across Navi Mumbai have already begun covering inauguration plaques, foundation stones, and boards displaying political leaders’ names on municipal properties. “The exercise is not merely symbolic; it ensures the city adheres strictly to the Model Code of Conduct while presenting a fair and neutral environment for voters,” an official said. Compliance reports from all departments are expected once the removal drive concludes. The commissioner, during a review of election preparedness, emphasised that election-related activities would take precedence for the next 30 days. Officials were instructed to revisit polling station locations, ensuring that all facilities, including voter accessibility, are in place well ahead of the polls.
A key innovation in this election cycle is the geo-tagging of all polling stations, which aims to facilitate easier access to information for both voters and authorities. The administration is also preparing ward-level election plans modelled on the District Election Plan to monitor duties systematically and enhance operational efficiency. The NMMC has prioritised voter list verification, particularly the identification of duplicate entries. Close coordination with local police is being maintained to ensure smooth implementation of election-related directives, including hoarding removal and facility readiness at polling centres. “Ensuring voter access and maintaining civic neutrality during elections is crucial for democratic integrity,” a senior urban planning expert noted.
The enforcement drive reflects a growing trend in Indian cities to maintain regulatory compliance during elections, balancing civic infrastructure management with democratic processes. By swiftly removing unauthorised political displays, Navi Mumbai sets a precedent for urban governance that aligns with transparency and accountability while minimising disruptions to residents. Senior officials present at the review meeting included additional commissioners, the city engineer, and the deputy commissioner (elections), highlighting the integrated approach of the NMMC in managing election readiness. The swift 48-hour drive not only ensures legal compliance but also demonstrates the administration’s ability to execute targeted urban interventions efficiently.
Through such measures, the city reinforces principles of fairness, civic responsibility, and orderly urban management, laying the groundwork for smoother elections and setting an example for sustainable urban governance practices across Indian municipalities.
Navi Mumbai Launches 48 Hour Drive To Remove Unauthorised Political Hoardings
