Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 15: The installation of red and blue flashing lights on the official vehicle of the Ritu Tawde has triggered a fresh debate over the return of VIP culture in the city’s civic administration.
After Narendra Modi ended the use of red beacons on vehicles used by ministers and senior officials to curb VIP culture, similar lights were also removed from the car of the Mumbai Mayor. However, with Mumbai getting a mayor again after four years, discussions have intensified within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation over the alleged return of VIP privileges.
According to civic sources, the mayor’s luxury vehicle now has flashing red and blue lights installed at the front. In addition, a new Mahindra Scorpio used by the mayor’s personal staff and security personnel has also been fitted with similar lights on its roof.
In April 2017, the central government banned the use of red beacons on vehicles, a move aimed at eliminating VIP culture. The order came into effect on May 1, 2017, and the practice has remained in force since then. Following the directive, flashing red lights were removed from the vehicles of ministers, senior officials, and even the Mumbai mayor.
For nearly nine years after the decision, such VIP-style signalling devices were not used. Whenever ministers or officials attempted to use them, it often attracted public criticism.
However, officials are believed to have found a workaround by installing red and blue flashing lights on the front portion of the mayor’s vehicle rather than the traditional roof-mounted beacon.
Civic officials argue that the mayor, considered the city’s first citizen, must attend multiple official events and reach venues on time. The mayor is also required to receive visiting dignitaries such as the President, Prime Minister, Governor, and foreign ministers, which makes timely travel essential.
Authorities have reportedly justified the installation as part of protocol arrangements, with the lights placed on the front of the mayor’s car and on accompanying vehicles in the convoy.
Despite the explanation, no official from the civic body has publicly commented on the matter. The development has nevertheless triggered widespread discussion within municipal circles about the apparent return of VIP-style privileges for the Mumbai mayor.