Kerala plans fee-based public protest legislation

The government plans to allow public protests by charging a small fee. Local Self-Government Minister M.B. Rajesh announced this during a session in the Assembly on March 25, 2025. The announcement follows concerns raised by MLA E.K. Vijayan about protecting the public's right to assemble, demonstrate, and display billboards. Vijayan pointed out that recent High Court rulings have made it harder for event organizers and local bodies to manage public gatherings. He noted that most demonstrations obtain permission and do not disrupt traffic. However, he emphasized that many roads were built with the support of political parties and community stakeholders. Minister Rajesh explained that the High Court had issued orders to remove illegally placed signage that blocks pathways. The government has acted on these orders. A meeting earlier this year led to the decision to amend laws that would allow public promotions through a fee system. These amendments will ensure that promotions comply with court rulings and do not endanger public safety. The Local Self-Government Principal Director will prepare a proposal for this initiative. The Minister assured that steps will be taken quickly to implement these changes, allowing public promotions to occur legally.