Pune: 822 Banners Removed, No Offences Filed

Pune's civic body conducted a two-day drive on September 5 and 6, removing 822 unauthorised banners and posters that had been installed for festivals like Dahi Handi and Eid-e-Milad. The action spanned 15 ward offices, with Vishrambaugwada recording the highest number of removals. These removed items included 496 boards, banners, and flexes, along with 111 posters and 81 flags. However, no offences were registered against any organisers, prompting citizen complaints about inconsistent enforcement compared to rules for DJs and loudspeakers. Citizens argue that registering offences would serve as a greater deterrent than mere fines. They point out that while small personal boards are removed quickly, large political banners remain for extended periods, causing visual clutter and safety concerns, including potential road hazards. Officials confirmed that the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Public Property Act, 1995, allows for prosecution for defacing public property, with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Despite these provisions, the lack of offence registration has led to a public outcry for more stringent and equitable application of civic rules.