West Bengal begins fining people for spitting, littering and public urination

West Bengal began imposing fines Tuesday for public spitting, littering, open urination and defecation, and violations involving banned plastic carry bags as part of a statewide cleanliness campaign.

Authorized civic inspectors will issue instant fines in streets, public areas, hospital zones, and transport hubs, with payments accepted only through digital methods.

Public urination or open defecation carries a fine of Rs 200 (approximately $2.11). Littering, illegal dumping, and carrying banned plastic bags also carries a Rs 200 (approximately $2.11) penalty. Spitting in public places carries a Rs 100 (approximately $1.05) fine.

State municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Paul had announced enforcement would begin in September following an awareness campaign. Officials said measures are intended to improve urban cleanliness, public hygiene, and civic discipline across West Bengal’s cities and towns.