Mumbai mayor says he is not aware of May 1 deadline to remove red beacons

In its bid to end the VIP culture in the country, the Centre on April 27 issued a notification asking all government officials and VIPs to do away with the red beacon.

First Citizen of Mumbai, mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar, reportedly said that he was unaware of the Centre’s notification banning the use of beacons from May 1.

The state transport commissioner has also written to all government departments, asking them to follow the Centre’s diktat on ending VIP culture. (Ht File)

In its bid to end the VIP culture in the country, the Centre on April 27 issued a notification asking all government officials and VIPs to do away with the red beacon, except those on emergency and police vehicles, by May 1.

However, Mahadeswar seems to think otherwise. “I am unaware of any circular or the May 1 deadline. I have asked the administration if they received any notification asking to remove red beacon, but they haven’t received it yet. As soon as I get any such instructions or communication, I will remove the beacon,” said Vishwanath Mahadeshwar.

The state transport commissioner has also written to all government departments, asking them to follow the Centre’s diktat on ending VIP culture, on Tuesday.

Even after the May 1 deadline, the mayor has continued to keep the beacon , and has merely covered with a cloth. Earlier, Mahadeshwar had said that he was busy, and had assured that he would follow the rules and remove the beacon before May 1.

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis stopped using the beacon immediately after the Union cabinet’s decision was announced. Other ministers too have removed the beacons from their cars.