Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Saturday warned that strict action would be taken against shops and commercial establishments not displaying their name boards in the Odia language.
As part of an awareness drive during the ‘Odia Pakhya’ being observed in the state, efforts are being made to sensitise shopkeepers and business owners about the mandatory requirement. As per rules, signboards of all shop and commercial establishment must be written clearly and correctly in Odia.
The directive has been issued by the Labour and Employees’ State Insurance Department, emphasising strict compliance under the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act. As per Section 35 of the Act, failure to follow the rule will invite penalties.
Officials said business owners will face a fine ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 for the first violation. For a second or subsequent violation, the penalty will increase between Rs 10,000 and Rs 20,000.
The department has also urged citizens to report any establishments that do not have proper Odia signboards. Complaints can be lodged with the local labour officer or at the nearest labour office for necessary action.
The special awareness campaign aims to ensure that all shops and commercial establishments display their name boards clearly and correctly in Odia. Officials have been instructed to inform business owners about the requirement and ensure compliance by April 7, a senior officials said.
