mumbai

Updated: Apr 27, 2017 10:06 IST

Almost all state cabinet ministers have removed red beacons from their cars following the ban on what was seen as the ultimate status symbol. However, many of them are unhappy over the idea of losing their VIP status. The state government is likely to come up with an alternative measure to ensure that their security and identity is maintained in public.

While several ministers chose not to comment, Shiv Sena leader and MoS for home Deepak Kesarkar said the state has asked Director general of police to suggest a system to ensure the “security, convenience and identification” of ministers and VIPs.

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

“It is true that the beacons were used as the status symbol in the political system. But now the issues of security and identification of VIPs has been raised. When I was heading towards the Mumbai airport, I faced the problem in traffic. Escort vehicles find it difficult to identify my vehicle, other vehicles kept rushing in ahead of my vehicle as my vehicle had lost the identity without the beacon. Ministers keep attending number of meetings and functions in a day and every second is important for them,” Kesarkar told HT.

“I have told director general of police to think of an alternative system. The final decision will be taken after discussion with the CM and head of home department Devendra Fadnavis,” he said.

Mayor’s cover-up

Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar has just covered his red beacon with a cloth. “I have not got time to send my vehicle to the garage for its removal. As a first citizen of the city, I will abide by the Centre’s decision,” he said.