Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has slammed the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the state Government for failing to stop unauthorised flex, banners and bunting in the capital.
A bench headed by Prasanna B. Warale, Justice M. G. S. Kamal, asked if a five-year plan is needed to curb the menace of unauthorised advertising? Waiting for an auspicious moment for flex clearance? During the election, 60,000 unauthorised flexes and banners were installed. But only 134 complaints were considered and 40 FIRs were registered. I wonder what happened to the rest of the cases, questioned bench.
Why is action not being taken against office bearers of political parties who implemented flex? Doesn’t the Government want Bengaluru to be beautiful? The High Court has expressed regret that it is the desire of the Government to have flex, banners and bunting all over the city, they noted.
Brand Bangalore is tarnished by flex, banners. What image are you giving investors about Bengaluru? If the condition of Bengaluru does not improve, how will you bring investment? Bengaluru is left to its own devices. It is surprising, shocking and conscience-stirring that BBMP threw up its hands in helplessness, they added.
CJ Prasanna B. Varale has taken a dig at the state Government saying what are you doing. Rs. 50,000 Penalty should be imposed. BBMP and the state Government should deposit Rs. 50,000 each. Action should also be taken against those who send greetings through flex. Action should be taken against the negligent officials, they said. The High Court has warned the BBMP and the state Government that those responsible for the administration of Bengaluru should pay attention to this. The High Court has advised to submit the action taken report within three weeks.