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The Karnataka High Court has strongly criticized the state government and the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) for failing to curb the menace of unauthorized hoardings and banners in Bengaluru. Expressing dissatisfaction with the proposed Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (Advertisement) Bye-law 2024, the court noted the absence of clear penalties for illegal advertisements in public spaces.
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During a hearing on a suo moto public interest litigation (PIL) addressing the issue, Chief Justice NV Anjaria’s division bench highlighted that such installations not only disrupt traffic but also inconvenience the public and tarnish Bengaluru’s aesthetics. The court noted that despite earlier directives issued to control the problem, illegal hoardings continue to proliferate across the city.
The bench referenced a PIL filed in 2017 seeking regulation of illegal advertisements, which has yet to see comprehensive enforcement. The court adjourned the matter to January 16, 2025, instructing the government and BBMP to provide specific answers regarding fine amounts for violators.
While Bye-law 15(1)(iii) of the proposed legislation mandates the removal of illegal hoardings and penalties for owners, the High Court raised concerns over the lack of clarity on fines for those installing such advertisements on public roads, footpaths, and other public spaces.
The High Court’s reprimand underscores the pressing need for stronger enforcement and accountability to address the long-standing problem affecting the city’s residents and infrastructure.
