The Union Cabinet in a historic decision today decided on a nationwide ban on the use of red beacons or the proverbial ‘lal batti’ from all VIP vehicles. Vehicles of the president, prime minister, ministers, chief ministers, MPs, MLAs, government officials and judges are included in this ban. Only emergency vehicles like ambulances, fire brigade, police, etc. which flash the blue light are exempt from the ban.

Speaking to news agency PTI, minister of road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari said, "The government is of the considered opinion that beacons on vehicles are perceived symbols of VIP culture and have no place in a democratic country. They have no relevance whatsoever." The minister also mentioned that they have reports of the misuse of beacons by officials for the purpose of show-off and status value. A detailed notification in this regard will be issued by the ministry shortly which will include details of punitive measures against violators.

This will be a welcome decision to road users who are often inconvenienced when roads are blocked to allow the passage of MPs, MLAs and other officials in red light flashing convoys. With this step, life-saving services like ambulances, the fire brigade and others will hopefully get higher priority on the road as well.

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