Thu Dec 19 22:38:00 UTC 2024: **Bombay High Court Issues Contempt Notices to Political Parties Over Illegal Hoardings**
MUMBAI, December 20, 2024 – The Bombay High Court issued contempt notices to all major political parties in Maharashtra on Thursday for failing to comply with a 2017 order to curb the proliferation of illegal political hoardings and banners. The court expressed strong displeasure at the continued disregard for its directives, noting that despite undertakings from parties like the BJP, Congress, Shiv Sena, NCP, and MNS to prevent unauthorized displays, illegal hoardings remain rampant across the state, particularly following recent elections.
The court’s action follows a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) highlighting the issue. While acknowledging that some hoardings have been removed (approximately 22,000 according to the Advocate General), the judges deemed the efforts insufficient and criticized the lack of aggressive action by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and other municipal bodies. The judges further noted the environmental hazards posed by these banners and expressed concern over the defacing of even High Court and civic buildings.
The court warned that if civic bodies continue to fail to enforce its orders, contempt notices will also be issued to officials. The matter has been adjourned until January 27, 2025. The court’s strong stance reflects its frustration with the persistent disregard for its previous rulings and the continuing visual pollution caused by illegal political advertisements across the state.
First Piper 