Now that the dates for local body elections have been announced, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to implement the model code of conduct.

“The code of conduct will be just similar to that of Assembly elections. We have started removing posters and defacing walls,’” said Srinivasan, Nodal Officer, who is also incharge of MCC.

Though the code came into force yesterday, defacing work has already been completed in some parts of the city. “We foresaw the poll dates and started working towards it. Now we will be able to meet the deadline in making the city free of any political images,” said another official.

According to model code of conduct, no political party or candidate shall permit followers to make use of any individual’s land, building, compound wall etc., without the latter’s permission for erecting flag staffs, suspending banners, pasting notices or written slogans. “In case of violation a Returning Officer / District Election Officer will send a notice to the party concerned to remove the defacement. Still if there is no response the authorities may remove the defacement and the expenses incurred in the process shall be recovered from the offender,” said the official.

Other rules and regulations as per the model code of conduct, especially the guidelines to be followed during the campaigning and the expenses made by candidates, will also be monitored strictly. “We have formed special teams to ensure this,” officials said.

Meanwhile, a police control room for the purpose of civic elections has been set up in the City. The first phase of elections will be held on October 17 in 10 City Corporations in Tamil Nadu.

However, Chennai, along with Dindigul Corporation, will go to polls only during the second phase on October 19. Besides, indirect elections for Mayor, Municipal Chairpersons and other urban local body chief posts will be held on November 2.