Malls warned again, officials told to act

The government has warned against advertising sales and discounts to lure customers, but some city malls are not paying any heed to it. Blame it on the ambiguity over punitive action to be taken against the violators. However, cracking the whip again on Monday, public health minister Dr Rajendra Shingane said strict action would be taken again establishments flouting the order. He also hinted at action against government officials, if found guilty.

“I have spoken to the collectors and the BMC commissioner about action against truant malls. Despite the warning, some commercial establishments have not withdrawn their advertisements. Neither have government officials taken any action against them. But make no mistake. Action is going to be taken against malls that continue to lure people with big discounts,” Shingane said, adding he would personally look into the matter. “If the officials from the BMC or the collectors’ offices are found guilty, they too would be punished.”

Shingane said his department wanted the number of the testing laboratories on the lines of Hafkine and NIV be increased to six — one for each revenue division. “The proposal will be placed before cabinet soon.” He claimed that the situation had stabilised in Mumbai. “It has improved in Pune too. Closing schools and colleges has helped.”