Meghalaya Bans VIP Flashers: Even CM’s Car Needs Permission Under New Rules

Shillong: In a move to end VIP culture on roads, Meghalaya has become the first state in India to strip all vehicles, including the Chief Minister’s official car, of the right to use flashing lights (amber/white flashers) without prior written approval from the Transport Department.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma personally announced the stringent new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), approved by the state Cabinet on Wednesday, declaring that “even the Chief Minister’s Office will have to seek formal permission” before using flashers.

The sweeping reforms close long-exploited loopholes that allowed politicians and influential persons to fit amber or white flashing lights after the nationwide ban on red beacons in 2017.

Key highlights of the new rules, effective immediately:

- Red beacons remain completely banned across India.
- Amber/white flashers now require case-by-case written permission from the Transport Department for every vehicle, irrespective of the occupant’s status.
- Tinted glasses are permitted only for Z+ and Z category security protectees. All others, including the Chief Minister, ministers, and MLAs, must justify the requirement before a high-level committee headed by the Principal Secretary (Home).
- Sirens are restricted strictly to police vehicles, ambulances, fire tenders, and authorised pilot/escort vehicles of VIPs/VVIPs.
- Display of nameplates mentioning designations such as “Chairman”, “Advisor”, “Member of Board”, or even “MLA” is prohibited unless the individual appears on an official list maintained and approved by the Transport Department.
- Flagposts and the national emblem/flag will continue to be governed solely by the Flag Code of India, 2002.

Stressing equality before the law, CM Sangma said the measures were introduced to curb the growing menace of unauthorised persons using flashers, sirens, heavy tints, and self-styled nameplates. “No one will be allowed to display such symbols of power unless expressly authorised,” he added.

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