JOIN USIn a move that would have a huge impact on the ‘cutout’ culture in Tamil Nadu, the Madras High Court has banned putting up banners and posters containing pictures of living persons.
Hearing a PIL, Justice S Vaidyanathan also said the statewide ban would apply even if prior permission was obtained to exhibit them.
To maintain a cleaner environment and avoid unnecessary paintings on the walls of buildings, the court also directed the Chief Secretary to ensure total compliance of
Tamil Nadu Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1959.
Even if permission has been granted by officials concerned to put up banners, flex boards and signboards, they should not contain photographs/pictures of living persons.
“It was further directed to ensure that the photographs and pictures of the persons, who were sponsoring such banners, should also not be depicted,” Justice Vidyanathan said.
In her petition, Chennai-based Thirulochana Kumari sought the court’s direction to the concerned authorities for removing banners and flags erected that blocked passage to her property.