264 FIR against illegal advertisements since Aug 2, BBMP tells HC

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The Chief Commissioner of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Tushar Girinath on Wednesday filed an affidavit before the High Court of Karnataka submitting details of the action plan and measures taken by the civic body to curb the menace of illegal advertisements including hoardings, flexes and banners in the City.

The affidavit states that 264 FIRs have been filed against persons who had put up illegal advertisements since August 2, when the HC had given strict instructions and warned it would impose a penalty of Rs.50,000 each on the BBMP and the State Government for each illegal hoarding.

“Now the menace is contained to a large extent. BBMP and its officials will strive hard to completely eradicate the menace of display of unauthorised flexes/banners in future by devising new methods and stricter action plan,” the affidavit states.

A document with the affidavit gave statistics of the measures and claimed that a total of 923 unauthorized flex/banners and other illegal advertisements were identified from August 2, 2023 onwards.

Each of the 923 unauthorized advertisements has been removed and 369 complaints were 264 FIR against illegal advertisements since Aug 2, BBMP tells HC filed against perpetuators.

A total of 264 FIRs have also been filed. The Commissioner in his affidavit stated that due to the Elections and the dearth of personnel, some of the measures could not be achieved.

“However after the order dated 2.8.2023 passed by this Hon’ble Court, I had to intervene and sensitise the Officers at all levels to see that the menace is curtailed effectively and see that the Orders passed by this Hon’ble Court is complied with in its letter and spirit,” the affidavit said.

The Commissioner claimed that a video conference meeting was held with the Special Commissioner and Zonal Commissioners of all eight zones of BBMP regarding the filing of cases against the defaulters on August 21.

A ward-wise team of officers has been constituted fixing specific duties and responsibilities including registering of FIRs, levying penalties and removal of unauthorized advertisements, the affidavit said.

After warning officials they are registering FIRs, the Commissioner has claimed. Also strict action including disciplinary proceedings against erring BBMP officials have been initiated.

The counsel for the petitioner GR Mohan submitted a memo with photographs of illegal advertisements and claimed the court order has not been followed.