In a decisive move to restore the city's visual appeal and public order, the Ludhiana district administration has launched a major crackdown on the rampant defacement of public property. Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain on Monday issued stringent directives to curb unauthorized posters, graffiti, banners, and wall writings that have marred the city's infrastructure.
Immediate Action and 48-Hour Deadline for Clean-Up
Taking serious note of the widespread violations under the Punjab Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1997, the DC has mandated immediate remedial measures. He directed the Municipal Commissioner to ensure the swift removal of all such unauthorized defacements across Ludhiana.
In a key instruction, Jain ordered the constitution of a dedicated team under a nodal officer within 48 hours. This team will be responsible for ward-wise monitoring and executing cleaning operations. To ensure accountability, the nodal officer must submit detailed weekly status reports to the DC office every Monday. These reports must include:
- Locations cleaned and restored.
- New cases of defacement identified.
- Specific actions taken against violators.
Non-compliance with these orders will invite strict administrative accountability for the appointed nodal officer.
Police Directed to Enforce Law, Register FIRs
The crackdown extends to law enforcement, with the Deputy Commissioner directing the Ludhiana Commissioner of Police to ensure strict compliance with the 1997 Act. The police have been instructed to:
- Register FIRs against individuals or organizations found responsible for defacing property.
- Enhance patrolling and surveillance, especially near government offices, flyovers, public infrastructure, and other high-visibility areas.
- Maintain proper records of all such cases at police stations.
- Submit weekly compliance reports to the DC office.
A Serious Offence with Zero Tolerance
Emphasizing the gravity of the issue, DC Himanshu Jain stated that defacement of public property is a serious offence that disturbs public order and tarnishes the city's aesthetics. He made a public appeal, urging all residents, political groups, and commercial organizations to immediately refrain from such activities.
The administration has warned that strict legal action will be taken against all violators without any exception. This comprehensive drive signals a shift towards zero tolerance for the illegal defacement that has long plagued Ludhiana's walls and public spaces.
