SHILLONG, Nov 27: The Meghalaya Cabinet has approved a new set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at tightening regulations on the use of sirens, beacons and tinted glasses on official vehicles, in a bid to curb misuse and bring uniformity to VIP and emergency protocols.
Briefing reporters after the Cabinet meeting held at Ward’s Lake, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the SOPs clearly outline which categories of officials and vehicles are permitted to use these privileges. “There has been widespread misuse and ambiguity over who can use sirens, beacons or tinted glasses. These SOPs will ensure clarity and accountability,” he said.
As per the new guidelines, only vehicles assigned Z-plus category security will be allowed to use tinted glasses. Sirens will be restricted to police vehicles, emergency services, and pilot and escort vehicles accompanying VVIPs and VIPs.
Sangma reiterated that red beacons remain banned nationwide since 2017. However, he clarified that emergency vehicles and certain official-duty cars may use flashers or multi-coloured blinking lights — but strictly with prior approval from the Transport Department. “Only those notified by the Transport Department will be authorised to use flashers,” he emphasized, adding that a committee has been constituted to determine eligible categories.
The Transport Department will also issue an official list of individuals allowed to display name plates on their vehicles. “A lot of people are randomly putting up name plates. This needs to be controlled,” the Chief Minister noted.
Additionally, the use of the National Flag on vehicles will strictly follow the provisions of the Flag Code of India, 2002.
