PM Modi sets example, shuns traffic restrictions

Narendra Modi not using route restrictions is a welcome sign for all those who want an end to the VIP culture in India.

New Delhi, April 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled from his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg to Delhi Airport, a distance of around 10 km, in normal traffic when he went to the airport to receive PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina. There were no route restrictions when the PM travelled.

In recent times there have been many instances where an attempt has been made to end VIP culture. Recently, newly elected Punjab government put a ban on use of red beacons on government vehicles to maintain equality in the country. However, within 10 days of announcing the decision the government took a U-turn on it and allowed use of red beacons on official vehicles of the CM and his ministers.

Uttar Pradesh government under Yogi Adityanath followed suit and the chief minister issued orders that no minister in the state will be allowed to use the red beacons atop vehicles.

After Aam Aadmi Party came to power in Delhi in 2013, CM Arvind Kejriwal had decided to do away with the red beacons for ministers and officials. In December 2013, the Supreme Court had also passed a ruling that only dignitaries holding constitutional posts at the Centre and states will be entitled to the privilege.

In August 2013, Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal had also taken steps to stop the misuse of red beacons and hooters as per the directives of the Supreme Court.

It is obvious that the PM not using route restrictions is a welcome sign for all those who want an end to the VIP culture in India. On the route that PM's cavalcade is to pass road restrictions are imposed and roads are blocked for private traffic and parking of vehicles is not allowed on the roads.

OneIndia News