Cut-outs of Katta, Ashok, a cut above law

Cut-outs of Katta, Ashok, a cut above law


Sharan Poovanna First Published : 03 Jul 2010 07:02:57 AM ISTLast Updated : 03 Jul 2010 08:37:30 AM IST
BANGALORE: Even as the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) made a fuss about illegal hoardings in the city and the losses it suffered due to non-payment of taxes, blatant violations continued to occur right under its nose.
A number of councillors and small-time politicians raised hundreds of temporary hoardings at busy traffic junctions to congratulate their leader. The occasion was two birthdays on one day.
Transport Minister R Ashok and IT/BT Minister Katta Subramanya Naidu celebrated their birthdays on July 1 and hoardings came up everywhere to wish them.
The BJP flag fluttered on the entire stretch of Nrupathunga Road, besides a visible presence at many junctions, including the Town Hall junction and NR Circle in front of the BBMP head office.
“We are used to this kind of nonsense on the roads as any leader coming to the city or victory in elections or birthdays are celebrated in this fashion,” said Shashidar, a motorist.
He pointed out that even as the corporation was quick to slap heavy fines on anyone who violated the laws, “they are toothless when it comes to tackling political parties”.
Siddlingiah, an auto driver, said both the ruling and the opposition parties should be fined.
They leave behind pamphlets and publicity material after every rally, he said.
“We have strict guidelines on this issue and have already started bringing down hoardings,” said a BBMP official.
He said many warnings have been given, but people continue to violate rules.
Many politicians don’t even know about the hoardings as local supporters erect them, he said.