Filmmaker Rohit Shetty removed ‘Police’ stickers and beacon-style lights from two private SUVs in his convoy after criticism over them resembling official police vehicles
An SUV in Rohit Shetty’s convoy passes through an area in the suburbs last week. Pic/Nimesh Dave (right) The same vehicle on Wednesday, after all embellishments were removed. Pic/By Special Arrangement
Beacon-style lights and ‘Police’ stickers have been removed from two sports utility vehicles in filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s private convoy after this newspaper brought the matter to light, following allegations that the automobiles were being made to resemble official police cars, raising concerns about potential misuse of authority.
Responding to the controversy, Shetty’s spokesperson told mid-day, “Following the unfortunate firing incident at Rohit Shetty’s residence [on February 1], the police promptly implemented heightened security measures, protecting both his home and film sets. During the initial phase, police identification stickers were placed on certain vehicles as part of these arrangements, which have now been removed.”
Shetty remains under police security, with two personnel watching over him, as the matter remains under active surveillance. “We sincerely thank the Mumbai Police for their unwavering support and cooperation during this difficult time,” the spokesperson said.
Rohit Shetty, filmmaker. FILE PIC/ASHISH RAJE
Sources in the know said that police personnel with weapons and security guards, often in plain clothes, used to occupy both SUVs. They were reportedly dressed like private security or bouncers, as uniforms could possibly deter people from approaching during public appearances. On-duty personnel accompanying the director will now don police uniform.
Case details
The controversy erupted after allegations surfaced that two SUVs, were being used as part of his convoy, allegedly fitted with police-style lights and marked ‘Police’, despite being privately owned vehicles (registered with the name of Rohit Shetty as per RTO records). The SUVs were reportedly manned by private security guards.
No reply by cops
This reporter again contacted senior Mumbai Police officials concerned seeking what action was taken in this case, but received no response till press time.
The pictures show embellishments which were later removed. Pics/Nimesh Dave (Before) and By Special Arrangement (After)
Activist Speak
Anil Galgali, Activist told mid-day
‘I have written a letter to the Mumbai police commissioner and the joint commissioner of police (traffic), seeking action against Rohit Shetty. This is a very serious matter, as displaying ‘Police’ on private vehicles and using beacon lights or sirens is strictly prohibited and punishable under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (Amendment 2019). Such acts mislead citizens, undermine the authority of the police system, and can potentially create law and order issues. Strict action must be taken, as has been done in similar cases in the past.’
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