New Delhi: A massive and illegally installed billboard in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, collapsed on Monday during heavy rain and a dust storm, killing 14 people and injuring 75 others. The tragedy has cast a harsh spotlight on the owner of the billboard, Bhavesh Bhide, who faces a disturbing criminal history and a pattern of ignoring safety regulations.Accused owner with troubled pastBhide, director of Ego Media Pvt Ltd, the company that owned the collapsed structure, was booked under Section 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) earlier this year at the Mulund police station. Though granted anticipatory bail, this serious accusation raises questions about Bhides character and disregard for the law.Repeat offender for illegal billboardsAdding to the outrage, authorities revealed that Bhide has a history of flouting billboard regulations. He has been penalized at least 21 times in the past for erecting illegal hoardings. These penalties fall under Sections 328 (putting up hoardings without permission) and 471 (fines) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act. Notably, Bhide himself declared these offenses, along with bounced cheque cases, in his affidavit when contesting the 2009 Maharashtra assembly elections.Authorities take actionThe Mumbai Police have registered a case against Bhide and others for culpable homicide not amounting to murder (IPC). A manhunt is underway to apprehend Bhide, who has reportedly gone missing. Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar vowed strict action against all responsible parties.Law enforcement and unheeded warningsThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) admitted to issuing a prior notice to Ego Media for installing the collapsed billboard. A senior official revealed that the assistant municipal commissioner had ordered the immediate removal of the structure, but the company failed to comply. The incident has triggered calls for stricter enforcement of billboard regulations and improved safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.Chief Minister announces compensationMaharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited the accident site and ordered a structural audit of all billboards in Mumbai. He also announced a compensation of Rs. 5 lakh to the families of each deceased.
