mid-day observes several non-transport vehicles being used for political campaigning in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad without authorities’ permission
Stickers pasted on rear panels on cars. Pics/Archana Dahiwal
With the municipal corporation elections round the corner, several aspirants have begun using private vehicles for campaigning, prominently displaying large stickers on car windscreens and rear glass panels — often covering the glass entirely. In some cases, stickers have also been spotted on the front windscreen, raising concerns over safety and election norms.
In Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, these vehicles have been frequently spotted plying on busy roads. According to officials from the Regional Transport Office (RTO), permissions have been granted to only 63 vehicles so far. Whereas, six vehicles have been booked so far for campaigning without permission.
Rahul Jadhav, deputy regional transport officer, told mid-day, “As per the rules, permission for campaign-related advertisements is applicable only to transport vehicles. Non-transport vehicles are not permitted to carry political advertisements unless specific approval is obtained from the transport department.”
However, mid-day observed that several non-transport (private) vehicles were also being used for campaigning, with political stickers pasted on rear and front glass panels.
Under Election Commission of India (ECI) norms, the use of vehicles for election campaigning requires prior permission from the returning officer. The size, placement, and content of political advertisements on vehicles must be approved, and such displays should not obstruct the driver’s view or violate provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act related to road safety.
Residents and commuters have expressed concern over the growing number of sticker-covered vehicles on city roads. “Many of these cars have their rear glass completely covered. It becomes difficult to judge braking or movement, especially in traffic,” said Suresh Kale, a daily commuter from Pimpri.
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