KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has ordered the removal of unauthorized boards and displays in public places within 15 days, failing which action should be taken against individuals who have installed these. Flags and boards could be considered encroachment of public spaces and action taken accordingly. Violators would have to pay a fine of one lakh rupees in fine and could face up to five years of imprisonment. The court noted that the provisions of the Kerala Land Conservancy Act, Police Act, Kerala municipality – Panchayati raj rules, Indian Penal Code, and the Highway Protection Act can be used to take necessary action.

On January 15th, the court had instructed the Director General of Police to issue a circular asking for criminal cases to be filed against those erecting unauthorized boards, and action against police officers failing to do so. The government responded that such a circular could not be issued in a matter outside of the jurisdiction of the police.

The court pointed out that unauthorized boards could be counted as encroachment under The Kerala Land Conservancy Act. It also verbally reprimanded the state government for failing to implement its orders.