Why Punish Ordinary Citizens While VIP Road Violations Continue?

The recent order by the Government of Nagaland banning religion-based or NGO stickers, slogans, and signboards on vehicles has disappointed many people.

If the government really wants to improve law and order on the roads, it should first take action against serious traffic rule violations happening openly every day. Many influential people use escorts, pressure horns, illegal convoys, tinted glasses, and misuse their power on roads, but strict action is rarely seen against them. Instead of focusing on these bigger problems, the government is targeting ordinary citizens for putting harmless stickers or slogans on their vehicles.

Nagaland is a special state under Article 371A, which protects the religious and social practices, customs, and traditions of the Naga people. Christianity and church organisations are an important part of Naga society and identity. Because of this, many people may feel that banning religious stickers and signages does not respect the unique culture and traditions of the state.

Also, Article 19(1)(a) gives citizens the right to freedom of expression. A simple Bible verse, church name, tribal identity, or NGO sticker on a private vehicle is usually a peaceful form of personal expression, as long as it does not spread hatred or break the law.

The government should focus more on:

-              Dangerous driving and traffic violations

-              Illegal VIP escorts and convoy culture

-              Corruption and misuse of official vehicles

-              Drunk driving

-              Poor road conditions and public safety issues.

Laws should be applied equally to everyone. People will respect the government more when strict action is taken against powerful rule-breakers also, not only against ordinary citizens with stickers on their vehicles.

Instead of a complete ban, the government could have only stopped offensive, hateful, or misleading signages, while allowing peaceful religious and social expression.