Mumbai Corporators Demand Action Against Shops Without Marathi Name Boards
The issue of Marathi signboards in Mumbai has once again come into focus after several corporators raised concerns over businesses not following the rules regarding Marathi display boards. During a recent meeting of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) law, revenue, and general purposes committee, members alleged that the civic administration has failed to properly implement the Supreme Court’s directions on Marathi name boards.
Corporators pointed out that many establishments across the city — including star hotels, rooftop restaurants, malls, and several businesses linked to celebrities — continue to use only English signboards while ignoring Marathi signage requirements. They demanded strict action against such establishments and urged the administration to ensure compliance with the law.
According to the existing rules, the name of every establishment in Marathi (Devanagari script) must be displayed in a font size equal to or larger than the English lettering. The rule was introduced to promote and preserve the Marathi language in Maharashtra.
During the meeting, corporator Tajinder Singh Tiwana reportedly raised the issue through a point of order and questioned why action had not yet been taken against violators. Committee members also expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of implementation despite repeated discussions on the matter.
Officials were asked to submit details regarding inspections conducted so far and the number of establishments penalised for not displaying Marathi signboards. Some corporators argued that the civic body must carry out special drives across commercial hubs to identify violators and enforce compliance.
The debate over Marathi signboards has surfaced multiple times in Maharashtra politics and civic administration over the years, often becoming a sensitive cultural and linguistic issue in the state.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets
