Panchkula, Oct 8: To curb the display of divisive and provocative symbols on public roads, Panchkula Police have announced that vehicles carrying caste, community, or religious slogans will now attract fines.
According to police officials, the decision aims to promote social harmony and prevent misuse of vehicles for displaying messages that could incite hatred or discrimination. The campaign comes after several instances were reported of vehicles carrying stickers such as “Jatt Power,” “Brahman Boy,” “Muslim Pride,” or “Rajputana,” among others.
“We have started a strict enforcement drive across Panchkula. Vehicles found displaying caste- or religion-based slogans or titles will be fined under the Motor Vehicles Act. These displays promote social divisions and go against the spirit of equality,” said a senior police officer.
Police teams have been deployed at major intersections and checkpoints to identify and penalize violators. Officials said such stickers, emblems, or words are often used to showcase identity or dominance, which can lead to unnecessary disputes or road rage incidents.
“People are free to express pride in their heritage, but not in a way that disrupts social unity or violates traffic norms. We appeal to citizens to voluntarily remove such stickers,” the officer added.
The police department has also urged the public to report vehicles violating the directive through helpline numbers or the official social media channels of Panchkula Police.
Officials clarified that the rule applies to both private and commercial vehicles, and that offenders may face penalties, including challans and removal of objectionable material on the spot.
The move is part of a wider campaign across Haryana to discourage caste and religious identity displays in public spaces, reinforcing the government’s message of equality and communal harmony.
