The Bombay High Court has recently issued stern remarks regarding the proliferation of illegal hoardings and banners in public spaces across Maharashtra. In a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) hearing, the court expressed its outrage over the blatant disregard for its previous orders banning such displays. The bench, comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar, noted that despite earlier directives, political parties and other organizations continue to erect unauthorized hoardings, even in sensitive areas like the vicinity of the High Court building. The court questioned the effectiveness of enforcement measures, stating, “What can be more horrendous than this?” in response to photographs showing illegal hoardings placed right outside the High Court.
The court’s concerns extend beyond legal violations to environmental and safety issues. It highlighted the hazards posed by such hoardings to pedestrians and road users, as well as the environmental damage caused by the plastic waste they generate.
In response to these violations, the court has issued contempt notices to over 25 political parties and instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take immediate action against the offenders. The BMC has reported filing 22 FIRs and removing over 10,000 political banners in the past year, yet the court remains dissatisfied with the enforcement efforts.
The court’s remarks underscore a growing frustration with the persistent use of public spaces for personal gain, despite legal prohibitions. The bench’s questioning of whether “only muscle and money prevail” reflects a broader concern about the erosion of legal norms and the rule of law in the face of political and commercial interests.
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