The Kerala High Court has directed the state government to submit a detailed affidavit disclosing the legal action taken against those responsible for installing illegal hoardings across Kerala, including the number of prosecutions initiated and fines collected from violators.
A Division Bench of Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V M issued the direction while hearing a public interest litigation concerning PVC flex banners, hoardings and oversized cut-outs erected in various parts of the state, particularly during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The court sought the information after the petitioner disputed the government’s claim that all unauthorised flex hoardings had been removed. According to the petitioner, such structures continued to remain in several locations despite the government’s assertion of complete removal.
The Bench directed the state to file a comprehensive counter affidavit specifying the prosecutions launched against violators and the fines recovered, if any.
PIL Seeks Removal of PVC Banners and Cut-Outs
The proceedings arise from a PIL filed by Kochi resident S Sadananda Naik, who sought the removal of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) flex banners, hoardings and giant cut-outs installed throughout Kerala, particularly in connection with the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The High Court has scheduled the matter for further hearing on November 18.
