Thiruvananthapuram: The State Election Commission (SEC) on Wednesday directed the removal of the “IPS” designation from campaign posters of former Director General of Police (DGP) R Sreelekha, who is contesting as the BJP candidate from the Sasthamangalam ward in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation elections.
The Commission’s move followed a formal complaint by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate T. S. Rashmi, who argued that it is illegal to use the “IPS” title after retirement, claiming that such references could mislead voters about Sreelekha’s current status.
Changes Made to Campaign Materials
In response to the SEC’s directive, the “IPS” title was removed from all campaign materials featuring Sreelekha’s name. BJP workers subsequently made modifications to some posters and boards in various areas, adding the word “retired” so that the designation now reads “Sreelekha, retired IPS.”
The action ensures compliance with election rules that prevent the use of official service titles of retired government officials in electoral campaigns, maintaining a level playing field among candidates.
Sreelekha Responds to the Directive
Addressing the development, R Sreelekha stated that the removal of the “IPS” tag would not affect her campaign. “Everyone knows me. The work I have done and my public service record speak for themselves,” she said, emphasizing that her identity and recognition extend beyond the formal title.
Sreelekha, who served as the Director General of Police in Kerala, has been projected by the BJP as its mayoral candidate for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation elections, and her campaign continues with active public engagements and outreach in the Sasthamangalam ward.
Election Compliance and Legal Precedent
The SEC’s order highlights the strict regulations governing electoral advertising, particularly concerning the use of official designations of retired officers. Election rules aim to ensure that no candidate gains an undue advantage based on former official positions, reinforcing fairness and transparency in the electoral process.
The controversy has sparked discussions about the role of retired officials in politics and how their previous positions should be represented during campaigns, especially in high-profile urban local body elections like Thiruvananthapuram Corporation.
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