Hindustan Times 14.11.2009
BMC stays order on Marathi signboardsThe city’s 4.88 lakh shops and establishments can breath easy. But only till Bombay High Court delivers its verdict on civic body's decision to put up their signboards prominently in Marathi.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday stayed its own order given to all shops about displaying Marathi signboard bold and before any other language.
The BMC, which is the implementing authority for the Maharashtra Shops and Establishment Rule, had directed on October 31, that all shops should display signboards in bold Marathi letters within 60 days or would be held liable for penal action.
The BMC had issued the directives in accordance with a 2000 state notification, which made it compulsory for commercial establishments to display signboards in bold Marathi.
The Federation of Retail Traders Welfare Association challenged the amendment with a writ petition, on which a decision is pending.
Following a threat by MNS to commercial establishments to change signboards in Marathi, the association filed a notice of motion seeking HC's attention to the threat. However, due to a communication error, BMC was informed that the original petition was disposed of from the court. Hence, the BMC issued new directives on October 31.
The Association sought a clarification from the court and learnt that HC was yet to deliver its verdict.
The BMC on Friday decided to stay its order.
