In a bid to curb public nuisances, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) is set to introduce fines of up to Rs 5,000 for individuals found urinating in public, defecating in the open, or spitting tobacco products like paan, gutkha, and supari.
An official from the JMC stated that Commissioner Rahul Yadav has already issued an order directing the Health Wing and Field Staff to enforce the new rules, which strictly prohibit public urination anywhere in the city.
“There are urinals and toilets available at various locations, which should be used instead of indulging in public nuisance,” the official said, warning that those who fail to comply with the directives will face heavy fines. If the fine is not paid on the spot, a challan will be issued, requiring the offender to deposit the amount in court. It is noteworthy that urinating in public places may also be punishable under Section 290 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with acts causing common injury, danger, or annoyance to the public. Dr. Vinod Sharma, Health Officer at the JMC, stated that an awareness drive is underway, with posters and banners being displayed across the city to educate the public about the new regulations.
“Instructions to take strict action have already been issued to the concerned officials,” Dr. Sharma said, adding that fines will be imposed for public urination, open defecation, and spitting. The focus is on raising awareness, as Dr. Sharma emphasized that the city of Jammu is undergoing a facelift under the ‘Jammu Smart City Projects Limited’, making it a moral duty for citizens to keep their city clean.
“Punishment alone will not work until there is a collective effort and public participation in the form of ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (people’s participation) to achieve our goal,” he stated. Sharma highlighted that while the JMC is the nodal agency responsible for maintaining cleanliness, public participation is key to achieving this mission. He cited the example of Indore, where residents’ awareness and contribution have helped the city secure top rankings in cleanliness nationwide.
