Is the Enforcement of PUCC in Bhubaneswar Fair?
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Synopsis
A significant protest unfolded in Bhubaneswar led by the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan against the imposition of heavy fines related to the Pollution Under Control Certificate. Activists demand a review of these measures, asserting they unfairly target ordinary citizens. The ongoing agitation raises critical questions about government policies and public welfare.
Key Takeaways
- Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan protests against PUCC fines.
- Claims of harassment by the Transport Department.
- Protesters demand the rollback of harsh penalties.
- Government policies under scrutiny for their impact on ordinary citizens.
- Public awareness and compliance systems questioned.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 15 (NationPress) The Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan (NNKS), a coalition of farmers, organized a significant protest in Bhubaneswar on Thursday against what they claim is the excessive imposition of fines and the harassment of ordinary citizens by the state Transport Department over the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
During the demonstration, members of the organization clashed with police while attempting to encircle the residences of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena.
The protest created turmoil in the vicinity as numerous demonstrators tried to breach police barricades set up near the Chief Minister’s residence.
Tensions heightened when NNKS members confronted the police, leading to the detention of several activists in an effort to restore order.
NNKS leadership has asserted that they will persist with their protests until the government reassesses and retracts what they describe as “severe and unreasonable” fines related to PUCC enforcement.
The group has urged the government to cease the intimidation of the public under the guise of pollution control and to annul the steep fines imposed on vehicle owners who lack a PUC certificate, labeling the initiative as “anti-people” and “unjust”.
In a statement to IANS, Akshay Kumar, National Coordinator of NNKS, condemned the government’s stance. He characterized the law surrounding PUCC fines as detrimental to the public and enforced without considering the financial realities faced by the average citizen.
“This law is entirely against the populace. If such unfair regulations are not retracted, we will escalate our movement and reach every household across Odisha. The government will not be able to suppress this protest,” Akshay Kumar cautioned.
He also questioned the logic of enforcing high fines without adequate public education or accessible means for compliance. “If individuals are penalized without proper resources or understanding, what is the point of such legislation? Ultimately, it is the ordinary citizen who bears the brunt,” he explained.
It is noteworthy that in December of the previous year, the Odisha government mandated strict adherence to PUC regulations during the Road Safety Month (January 1–January 31, 2026) and directed fuel suppliers not to dispense fuel to vehicles lacking a valid PUC certificate.
However, the implementation was postponed to February 1, 2026, due to challenges faced by vehicle owners in acquiring the certificates. Recently, the state government has granted an extension for the enforcement of PUCC checks until April 1.
Point of View
It is important to support the narrative of the common citizen. The ongoing protests in Bhubaneswar highlight vital concerns regarding governmental policies that may impact the livelihoods of ordinary people. It is crucial for the government to engage in dialogue with these stakeholders to ensure that regulations are fair, just, and consider the economic realities faced by the public.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan protesting against?
They are protesting against the heavy fines and harassment related to the enforcement of the Pollution Under Control Certificate by the state Transport Department.
Who are the key figures involved in this protest?
The protest involves members of the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan and key political figures such as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena.
What are the protesters demanding?
The protesters demand the government to stop the harassment of citizens and to revoke the heavy fines imposed on vehicle owners without a valid PUC certificate.
What has the government done regarding PUC enforcement?
The Odisha government initially announced strict enforcement of PUC norms but later postponed the implementation due to challenges faced by vehicle owners.
What could be the impact of these protests?
These protests could lead to a reevaluation of government policies affecting vehicle owners and potentially result in more public engagement on environmental regulations.
