Team Blitz India
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The draft of the Kerala Prevention of Defacement of Property Bill 2024 has proposed severe penalties against those who vandalise historical sites by posting notices, placing flex boards, and carving names and drawings.
Such actions could invite imprisonment for one year and a penalty of Rs 1 lakh. Those who deface historical monuments by placing banners, flex boards, pasting notices and displaying other ads will receive six months of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 50,000.
The Kerala Law Reforms Commission submitted to the state government a draft bill after considering the suggestions put forth by the Legislative Assembly Public Accounts Committee (2006-08).
The bill will help curb the illegal flex boards and notices installed on roadsides, memorials, and monuments. If those responsible for breaking the rules are businesses or political parties, the leaders or other responsible members will be held accountable. The bill authorises district collectors to install boards in public spaces to promote tourism and other commercial activities.
Meanwhile, prior permission shall be sought from owners of private properties for wall paintings during elections in the state. The wall paintings or posters that were put up during the election should be removed after a certain period.