India faces backlash over display of public urinators’ photos

Photos of people caught urinating in public on CCTV cameras are being displayed on LED screens across the city in Assam, India. The initiative, launched by the Tinsukia Municipal Board as part of a cleanliness campaign, has sparked widespread debate and criticism across India. Footage of people littering is also reportedly being displayed alongside scenes of public urination.

Rajya Sabha member Milind Deora first brought the issue to public attention in a post on social media platform X titled “Hall of Shame.” He suggested that other major Indian cities, including Mumbai, consider similar measures to curb environmental pollution.

According to the municipal authorities, the initiative aims to reduce repeated offenses of the same nature.

Pulak Chetia, chairman of the Tinsukia Municipal Board, said, “Our intention is not to humiliate anyone; rather, this program is aimed at bringing about a positive change in citizens’ behavior.”

Chetia said areas where such incidents occur frequently are being monitored regularly. The municipality believes the initiative will be successful if it makes people think twice before littering or urinating in public.

However, the move has drawn mixed reactions. While many residents have praised the initiative, they have also emphasized the importance of ensuring adequate public toilets and improved civic infrastructure.

One resident said, “This initiative will make people think before making public places dirty. However, it is also essential to ensure accessible public toilets alongside it.”

Critics, meanwhile, argue that ensuring adequate civic amenities is just as important as measures such as publicly displaying individuals’ photographs.

Source: NDTV ( Adapted)