The Kochi Corporation commenced the removal of publicity materials, including boards and banners, installed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) across Kochi city on March 11, 2026. These materials were publicizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit.
According to a Corporation official, the action was undertaken "strictly in compliance with Kerala High Court directions" concerning the prevention of defacement in public spaces, clarifying that the move was not politically motivated. The High Court has repeatedly criticized the Corporation for its alleged failure to prevent such unauthorized installations. An amicus curiae appointed by the High Court was reportedly inspecting the city during these removals.
The Corporation has previously taken similar action, fining the Congress party ₹5.90 lakh earlier in the year for publicity materials related to Rahul Gandhi's visit. A directive issued by the Corporation Secretary last month stipulated a ₹5,000 fine for each unauthorized installation and warned of legal action, in line with a High Court directive from November 19, 2025. In January, the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation also faced court criticism regarding similar issues of widespread unauthorized publicity materials.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/ahead-of-modis-kerala-visit-kochi-corporation-removes-publicity-materials-welcoming-pm-citing-hc-directions/article70729851.ece
