Kollam Corporation fines CPI(M) State conference organisers

Organisers of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] State conference have been fined ₹3.5 lakh for installing flags, banners, flex boards, and cutouts in Kollam city. The fine notice was issued by the Kollam Corporation.

Reportedly, the organising committee had applied to the Corporation secretary a month ago, seeking authorisation to install decorations along the roadside. The application, received during the tenure of CPI(M)‘s Prasanna Earnest as Mayor, was discussed by the steering committee. However, no decision was made to grant permission, and consequently, no response was given to the application. Later, Ms. Earnest resigned and the Communist Party of India’s (CPI) Honey Benjamin assumed charge as Mayor. Given the existing High Court ruling against roadside flex boards and decorations, the Corporation secretary recently issued a notice to pay fine for the unauthorised installation of flags, banners, and other items along the roadside.