Indore | September 24, 2026
A nine-day protest against unauthorised banners, posters and hoardings in Indore came to an end on Thursday after activist Prahlad Pandey received a written assurance from the municipal corporation and district administration.
Pandey had been on a hunger strike at Regal Square, demanding action against hoardings and other promotional structures allegedly installed in violation of municipal rules. Following the administration’s assurance, he called off his fast. Officials and supporters present at the site helped him break the fast with coconut water.
Written Commitment from the Administration
Pandey said senior municipal officials met him on Wednesday night and briefed him about the action already taken against unauthorised hoardings. Photographs and videos of the work carried out by the civic authorities were also shared with him.
According to Pandey, officials assured him that illegal hoardings at Marmata Square, Banganga Square and Mhow Naka Square would be removed within a specified timeframe.
Pandey said the protest was not directed against any particular individual or organisation but was aimed at ensuring compliance with rules governing banners, posters and hoardings across the city.
Health Deteriorated During the Fast
Pandey’s health reportedly deteriorated during the nine-day hunger strike, causing concern among his family members and supporters.
His wife, Sangeeta Pandey, remained with him throughout the protest. She said the campaign also received support from people on social media and from individuals who did not personally know the family but backed the demand for action against unauthorised hoardings.
Municipal Corporation Outlines Further Action
Municipal Deputy Commissioner Keshav Sagar said removing unauthorised hoardings from major city intersections was among Pandey’s primary demands. He said action had already been taken at some locations and that remaining sites would be addressed according to the administration’s schedule.
Sagar added that civic teams were continuing the removal drive despite the increased workload during the festival season.
Additional Tehsildar Kamlesh Kushwaha said the administration had remained in contact with Pandey for several days. He said measures were being taken to prevent unauthorised structures from affecting traffic movement and the appearance of the city, with the aim of avoiding similar situations in the future.
With the written assurance in place, Pandey has ended his nine-day hunger strike, while the implementation of the promised action will now remain under administrative monitoring.
(SDNA)