Misuse of Hooters And Sirens In The Maha Kumbh Made People Think That Vehicle Occupants Were Lords And They Were Their Subjects And They Would Be Crushed If They Don’t Move Aside:

On June 17, 2024, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued an immediate directive banning the use of Hooters, emphasizing that the culture of VIP privilege would not be tolerated. He stated that only the lead vehicle in VIP convoys would be permitted to use Hooters, and even then, only within the prescribed sound limits.

The Chief Minister warned that strict action would be taken against police stations if vehicles were found violating this directive. However, despite the massive influx of devotees during the Maha Kumbh, numerous vehicles were observed disregarding these guidelines, much to the distress of the public. Many devotees expressed their displeasure, questioning the apparent disregard for the rules and feeling disturbed by the continuous blaring of hooters.

One devotee remarked that such behavior from VVIPs creates an impression that ordinary citizens are insignificant on the roads while those in power consider themselves superior. Another stated that if a driver wrongly activates the hooter or siren, the VIP inside should instruct them to turn it off immediately.

Under current Uttar Pradesh regulations, the use of red or blue beacon lights and hooters is highly restricted. Only emergency vehicles such as police patrol cars, ambulances, and fire brigades are permitted to use multi-colored flashing bar-style lights in red, blue, and white. Even high-ranking dignitaries are prohibited from using these beacons due to widespread misuse concerns.

Key guidelines regarding beacon and hooter usage in Uttar Pradesh:

• Restricted to emergency vehicles: Only vehicles engaged in emergency and disaster management duties may use flashing multi-colored lights.
• No individual beacons: The approved lighting system must be a horizontal bar with red, blue, and white lights, rather than standalone red or blue beacons.
• Strict enforcement: Authorities are actively working to prevent the misuse of beacon lights, with violations leading to penalties.

According to Rule 119(1) and (3) of the Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, sirens and multi-tone horns remain banned, except for police vehicles, ambulances, and fire brigades. As per traffic regulations, only ambulances, police, fire brigade, and emergency vehicles are legally allowed to use Hooters.

Furthermore, government regulations specify that only a select group of high-ranking dignitaries, including the President of India, Vice President of India, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and Chief Justice of India, are authorized to use beacons and hooters. Additionally, even the display of beacons in a switched-off condition—whether covered or uncovered—is strictly prohibited.

Judicial and Legal Provisions:

Judges are expected to uphold propriety and avoid even the appearance of impropriety in all their activities. Given their public position, they are subject to heightened scrutiny and must adhere to restrictions that may seem burdensome.

The use of vehicle horns is also regulated:

1. Unnecessary honking is prohibited.
2. Drivers should only use the horn when they perceive a potential danger to themselves or other road users.
3. The horn should be sounded when required by mandatory traffic signs.

The Motor Vehicles Act mandates a fine of ₹2,000 for unauthorized use of hooters and an equivalent penalty for using pressure horns in vehicles.

On March 22, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath once again urged his cabinet ministers to refrain from using hooters and sirens on their vehicles, citing concerns about noise pollution and public disturbance. Cabinet Minister Siddhartha Nath Singh reinforced this directive, stating that from the very first day of assuming office, he had decided not to use hooters or sirens.

A legal bench, while reviewing cases of violations, observed that the blatant disregard for these prohibitions by public officials, civil servants, and even ordinary citizens reflects a feudalistic mindset that contradicts the principles of a democratic republic.

As per established rules, sirens are permitted only in vehicles designated for ambulances, fire-fighting, police operations, salvage missions, construction equipment operations, and authorized Motor Vehicles Department officials. This strict regulation aims to prevent abuse and reinforce discipline in road usage.

Despite repeated orders and legal provisions, the misuse of hooters and beacon lights by individuals in positions of power remains a persistent issue. Addressing this requires continued vigilance and strict enforcement to ensure compliance with the law and maintain public order.