Indira's pics covered in some canteens

The pictures of former prime minister Indira Gandhi displayed outside a few Indira Canteens are being removed by the BBMP as the model code of conduct is in effect.

Earlier, only Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's photos were removed from these canteens.

After the code of conduct came into effect, District Election Officer and BBMP Commissioner N Manjunath Prasad had said that as per the Election Commission guidelines, the images of late political leaders need not be removed.

At a few canteens in Dasarahalli zone, Indira's pictures, which have been carved on the walls of the canteen, was closed using white sheets.

In Mallasandra ward number 13, Indira's picture and the name 'Indira' written on top of the picture were covered.

A canteen staff told DH: "Senior officials first asked us to close the pictures of the chief minister. Two days ago they asked us to cover Indira Gandhi's picture too."

The Indira Canteen is a flagship programme of the state government which provides food at subsidised rates. The canteens serve lunch and dinner for Rs 10 and breakfast for Rs 5.

Mayor R Sampath Raj told DH: "The guidelines only state that the photos of present politicians should be pulled down. Displaying Indira Gandhi's pictures is not a violation of the code of conduct."

"I will discuss the issues with officials concerned and find out the reason," he added.