Crack down on misuse of red beacons,Cabinet Secy tells depts

It has been found that many offices are misusing such privilege despite not being entitled to it, said a government official,and added that it has become a menace for the police. The number of cases of theft or crime involving red light fitted cars have been rising in the Capital. This has become a headache for the police as the criminals escape using these cars. In certain cases,it was found that car owners were not even eligible for this privilege, the official added.

Even though the recent circular does not specify any reason,it has instructed government departments to ensure compliance. The offices entitled for a red light fitted vehicle,sans flasher,are those of the Chief Election Commissioner,Comptroller and Auditor General,Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker,Union ministers of state,Planning Commission members,Attorney General,Cabinet Secretary,Defence services chiefs,and heads of Central Administrative Tribunal,Minorities Commission,the SC/ST Commission and Union Public Service Commission. However,several Central and state government employees,not entitled to such cars,continue to use the privilege. When contacted,one such IAS officer said that he has asked for removal of the light or mask it by putting a black cover on it.