novel idea to showcase official 'apathy'

: Residents of some localities hit upon a novel idea to showcase official 'apathy' towards their grievances, displaying placards urging candidates not to enter the areas for canvassing for the coming Lok Sabha polls.
Their grouse was that police had suddenly closed a pathway in front of the DSP office, used by around 10,000 people, including the aged and schoolchildren, forcing them to take a circuitious route.
Repeated memoranda to the administration failed to yield results and so they were forced to adopt this kind of protest, they said
Instead of boycotting the polls, the residents erected boards reading, "Candidates kindly do not canvas from voters."

On receipt of information, officials rushed to the spot, assured them that suitable action would be taken and persuaded them to clear the boards.