Defacement of public property persists despite strict orders in Amritsar

Despite repeated warnings and strict directives from the Amritsar Municipal Corporation, illegal posters and advertisements continue to deface public buildings and walls across the city. Ironically, many of these posters are pasted directly beneath official warning boards installed by the civic body, underscoring a blatant disregard for regulations.

A recent visit to several areas revealed walls covered in layers of promotional material, including advertisements for coaching centres, immigration services, political campaigns and local events. In some instances, posters were found plastered below bright yellow warning boards cautioning individuals against defacing public property under the provisions of the Punjab Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.

The Act clearly prohibits writing, printing or pasting any material on public property without prior permission and provides for penalties and fines. The municipal corporation has previously stated that violators could face fines of up to Rs 50,000 along with other legal action. However, the ground reality suggests that enforcement remains a significant challenge.

Residents have expressed concern over the growing problem, stating that unchecked defacement not only mars the city’s appearance but also reflects poorly on civic discipline. “The authorities have put up warning signs, yet people are still pasting posters right below them. It makes a mockery of the rules,” said a local shopkeeper.

Officials claim that teams are regularly deployed to remove unauthorised posters and identify offenders. However, the posters often reappear within days, indicating a lack of sustained monitoring and stringent penalties.

Activists have urged the authorities to impose heavier fines and take swift action against repeat offenders. They have also suggested creating designated spaces for advertisements to prevent damage to heritage structures and public infrastructure.

“Most of these advertisements are put up by quacks and self-styled godmen. The administration must act firmly to curb the defacement of public property,” said Harjit Singh, another resident.