The Kerala High Court has strongly reprimanded civic authorities, especially the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, for failing to enforce its earlier orders to remove unauthorised flex boards, banners and flags cluttering public sidewalks and footpaths across the city — a situation that continues despite repeated judicial directions. During a review hearing on January 23, 2026, Justice Devan Ramachandran expressed “surprise and distress” at the persistence of these installations, which not only violate court orders but also obstruct pedestrian movement and public safety.
The court noted that previous directives — mandating removal of such boards and imposition of fines — appear to have had limited practical impact, with numerous unauthorised flexes still visible on footpaths and public spaces. The bench highlighted that pedestrian rights and ease of movement cannot be compromised, emphasising that compliance must be visible on the ground, not just in assurances from officials.
In a related development linked to ongoing enforcement efforts, the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation itself has taken action against the BJP city district committee, imposing a ₹19.7 lakh fine and prompting a police case after its leaders installed flex boards on footpaths in violation of High Court orders during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the city. The FIR alleges disobedience of court directives and obstruction of public pathways between Palayam Junction and Pulimoodu Junction, with charges filed under relevant sections of the penal code addressing obstruction and disregard for official orders.
The court has asked the corporation to file a detailed compliance report listing numbers of illegal boards identified, actions taken to remove them, and penalties charged. The matter has been adjourned for further review next week, underlining the judiciary’s insistence on strict enforcement of public space laws and real accountability from civic bodies.
News as reported
