Kerala HC notes state lax in collecting fines for unauthorised flex boards
The Kerala High Court criticized the state for not collecting fines on unauthorised flex boards and banners, accusing authorities of losing revenue. It highlighted discrepancies between installations removed and fines collected and urged local bodies to implement court directives.
Key takeaways
- Kerala High Court criticized state authorities for not collecting ₹5000 fines on unauthorised installations.
- Discrepancies were reported between removals and fines collected by local corporations and an official affidavit.
- Court demanded better reporting from urban affairs officials and reaffirmed directives to remove unauthorised hoardings.
What Happened
The Kerala High Court, led by Justice Devan Ramachandran, reviewed a plea addressing visual pollution caused by unauthorised flex boards, banners, and related installations. It observed that the state appeared to be failing to penalise and collect fines for such unauthorised uses, which the court previously ordered to carry a fine of 5000 rupees per board or installation. The court pointed out a gap between the number of installations removed and the fines collected, as reported by the Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam Corporations, and in an affidavit sworn by the state’s Chief Secretary. It reproached authorities for not filing reports on the implementation of court directives and the removal of unauthorised hoardings. The bench had earlier directed Local Self-Government Institutions to remove unauthorised hoardings and ensure that no further installations are allowed.
Why It Matters
The court signalled that non-collection of fines represents a loss of revenue and non-compliance with judicial orders aimed at curbing visual pollution. By blaming the authorities for not reporting on enforcement and removal activity, the court communicated that financial penalties should accompany removals to deter Future unauthorised displays and to reinforce regulatory compliance at a municipal level.
Background
The case has centered on visual pollution caused by unauthorised flex boards, banners, and similar installations in Kerala. Prior judicial orders mandated the removal of such installations and the imposition of fines for violations, with local self-government bodies and state agencies accountable for enforcement and revenue collection.
Key Facts
- The Kerala High Court is presiding over a plea concerning unauthorised flex boards, banners, and related installations.
- The court noted that a fine of ₹5000 per board/installation had been ordered previously but not effectively collected.
- Discrepancies were reported between the number of removed installations and the fines collected, according to reports from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam Corporations and an affidavit by the Chief Secretary.
- The court criticised Joint Directors of Urban Affairs for not filing enforcement reports related to court directives and removal actions.
- Earlier directions required Local Self-Government Institutions to remove unauthorised hoardings and prevent new installations.
What Happens Next
The document notes that authorities would be held responsible for imposing and collecting fines based on the number of unauthorised installations if non-compliance continues. It remains to be seen how the state will adjust enforcement reporting and revenue collection to align with court directives.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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