Public Toilets in Shimla Will Remain Free of Charge for All

Shimla, 31 December: In a significant reversal, the Shimla Municipal Corporation (MC) has decided against charging a fee for the use of public toilets in the city. This change comes after a strong protest from Shimla residents and widespread criticism on social media. The Mayor, Surinder Chauhan, clarified that the MC will not impose any fees for using public toilets, addressing public concerns and reaffirming the commitment to free access.

The controversial proposal, which was to be implemented starting the new year, aimed to charge women for using public toilets. This decision was met with anger and disappointment from the public, leading to a sharp backlash. In a statement, the Mayor assured that no such proposal was ever passed in the Shimla Municipal Corporation House, and that there is no intention to impose any fees for toilet use.

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The issue of public toilet fees had been raised in the Municipal Corporation House, where it was decided to charge the same fee for women. However, after the public outcry, the Shimla Municipal Corporation has now ensured that both men and women will have free access to the public toilets, in line with gender equality principles. This move follows instructions issued by the High Court in a petition filed by Sulabh International, which called for equal access to public facilities.

Opposition parties, including the BJP, criticized the decision, calling it unfortunate and reflecting narrow-minded thinking. They pointed out the contradiction between the government’s promotion of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) and the MC’s decision to charge fees, which they argued would lead to more inconvenience and unhygienic conditions. BJP State Media Incharge Karan Nanda also criticized the move as another example of the government imposing unnecessary taxes on the public.

In response to the feedback, the Shimla Municipal Corporation has committed to ensuring the continued provision of free public toilets for all residents and visitors to the city.

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