RTI activist alleges Meghalaya police of imposing exorbitant fine on use of black films

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 12, 2024

RTI activist Disparsing Rani on Friday alleged Meghalaya police of imposing “exorbitant fine” against vehicles using of black films.

Addressing a news conference, Rani said that he had applied RTI on the use of ‘tinted glass’ or ‘black films’ by vehicles.

“As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the first penalty (against use of black films) is Rs 100 but here in Meghalaya, they fine (such violators) upto Rs 1000 to Rs 2000,” he told reporters.

He also claimed “there are also witnesses (to such acts)”. “The RTI is sent through the Governor and I am waiting for (more) information (on the matter),” Rani stated.

Recently, East Khasi Hills district police chief Sylvester Nongtnger had informed that a total amount of Rs 13.35 lakh was realised as fine from 1,788 vehicles detected for use of black films in the state capital with effect from July 1 to September 6. Of these, 30 were government vehicles.

According to him, the Supreme Court of India vide judgment on a writ petition has prohibited the use of black films of any percentage Visual Light Transmission (VLT) on the safety glasses, windscreens (front and rear) and side glasses.

Police had maintained that the drive against the use of black films including other MV Act violations shall continue and stringent action will be taken against violators.

According to the SP, as per direction, only one vehicle of a minister or MLA is allowed to use black films and that a committee is already in place to consider the cases for grant of exemption on the use of films on the glasses of vehicles. The said committee was notified on May 21, 2012.