Nagpur, India: Hoardings promoting the COMP-EX 2025 tech exhibition have been spotted on traffic signals across Nagpur, despite such advertisement on signals deemed illegal by the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court. The court had recently warned the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) against allowing such advertisements on public spaces like footpaths, terming them a violation of civic rules.

The exhibition, organized by the Vidarbha Computer and Media Dealers Welfare Association (VCMDWA), has drawn sharp criticism for ignoring the court's warning and placing unauthorized hoardings in prominent public areas. These advertisements not only block traffic signals but also create visual distractions, posing a safety risk to commuters.

The NMC, responsible for enforcing laws against such encroachments, has been accused of negligence. Despite the High Court’s strict orders to curb the illegal use of public spaces for advertisements, these hoardings highlight a lack of enforcement or intentional oversight by the officials.

Adding to the controversy is the involvement of Nagpur Police’s Cyber Cell in the exhibition. While the Nagpur Police Has Started an Initiative to clean the footpath from vehicles and encroachments, what about the illegal hoardings. By not acting against the unauthorized hoardings, the police send a message that such violations are allowed. Question Mark?

The organizers of COMP-EX 2025, known for promoting technological advancements, are also accountable. Resorting to illegal promotional tactics raises questions about their adherence to lawful practices, tarnishing the event's reputation.

The illegal hoardings reflect poorly on the NMC, Nagpur Police, and the organizers. Authorities must take immediate action to remove the advertisements, penalize those responsible, and ensure stricter enforcement of advertising rules. This is crucial to maintaining public trust and preserving Nagpur’s image as a city striving for progress and innovation.