Chandigarh: Contrary to what Centre said few years ago that it would do away with the the VIP culture by banning the use of red beacon lights by prominent people, the Haryana government has announced that MLAs can now use a flag with the Vidhan Sabha logo on their vehicle so that they can be identified while travelling by road.
The flag was unveiled by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar during the event.
Vidhan Sabha Speaker Gian Chand Gupta said the decision was taken after several legislators pointed out that on many occasions they faced humiliation at toll plazas as they were told to prove their identity.
He said allowing legislators to use the flag in no way amounts to a "VIP culture". The flag carries the logo of the Vidhan Sabha and just identifies as an MLA, he said.
Reading out the terms and conditions for its use, the Haryana speaker said the MLAs have to apply for it to the Vidhan Sabha. The authorisation will be issued by the transport commissioner on a prescribed form.
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The permission will remain valid till the completion of the tenure of the Vidhan Sabha or till an MLA has the membership of the House, Gupta said.
The legislators authorised by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha can use the flag on the vehicle registered in their name.
If an MLA does not have any vehicle registered in his or her name, then the flag can be used on a private or hired vehicle, Speaker Gian Chand Gupta said.
In case, the vehicle having the flag is not occupied by an MLA, then it shall remain hidden by a white cover.
Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who also unveiled a portrait of Lord Krishna''s chariot and Bhagvadgita at the event, said the move aimed at ensuring the identification of the MLAs.
He said the MLAs faced problems while travelling by road, especially at toll barriers.
(with inputs from agencies)
