Shimla/Solan, May 13:
The Himachal Pradesh government has come under sharp criticism after banned small-sized plastic water bottles were allegedly distributed during a political programme, exposing what critics are calling the government’s “selective enforcement” of environmental laws.
Despite a statewide ban on water bottles smaller than 500 ml, authorities have repeatedly cracked down on small shopkeepers and vendors, imposing heavy fines for violations. However, photographs from a recent political gathering show the same restricted bottles being openly used with political branding pasted on them, triggering outrage on social media and among local residents.
The controversy has raised uncomfortable questions for the state government, which has consistently projected itself as strict on plastic pollution and environmental protection. Critics argue that while poor vendors and small businesses are penalised without hesitation, political events appear to enjoy immunity from enforcement.
“This is a clear case of double standards. If a shopkeeper sells these bottles, officials immediately impose fines. But when political parties distribute them at rallies, the administration looks the other way,” said several shopkeepers reacting to the incident.
The issue has intensified debate over whether environmental laws in Himachal Pradesh are being implemented fairly or being used selectively against ordinary citizens. Many have demanded equal action irrespective of political affiliation, saying rules cannot be different for the ruling establishment and the common public.
The incident is likely to add to the growing criticism surrounding the state government’s handling of plastic ban enforcement and administrative accountability.
