BBMP faces backlash over religious posters

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has sparked controversy over its latest move to curb roadside garbage dumping by placing images of Bharat Mata and Hindu deities at black spots across the city. The move, intended as a deterrent against littering and urination, has drawn sharp criticism from Hindu groups and local residents.

The controversy erupted after a video of a heated argument between a BBMP marshal and a local citizen went viral. The incident occurred in Jayanagar, where a flex board displaying Bharat Mata’s image was installed on Kanakapura Road with the warning: “Do not dump garbage here. Offenders will be fined ₹5,000.” However, several residents found the use of religious imagery on garbage black spots deeply offensive.

According to BBMP marshals, the initiative was undertaken under instructions from senior officials as an awareness campaign. However, critics argue that such an approach disrespects religious sentiments, as some people were seen throwing garbage and urinating near the sacred images.

Puneet Kerehalli, a member of the Hindu organization Rashtra Rakshak Band, publicly condemned the move, questioning BBMP’s authority to use religious symbols in such contexts. In a social media post, he challenged the civic body to explain whether it would dare to use imagery from other religions in similar ways. Netizens have demanded the immediate removal of the posters, calling it an insult to the Hindu faith. Hindu organizations are now urging BBMP to issue an apology and reconsider such awareness tactics. BBMP officials have yet to respond officially.