Court orders inquiry into Tehsildar Sopore’s unauthorised beacon, siren use

Srinagar, Aug 24: The Special Mobile Magistrate (Traffic), Kashmir Province, Srinagar has directed the SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir to physically inspect the official vehicle of Tehsildar Sopore Tariq Ahmad Shiekh following allegations of unauthorised use of a red or blue beacon light and multi-toned siren.
The order was passed on an application filed by Muzaffar Ahmad, who alleged that the Tehsildar was using a beacon or warning light and multi-toned siren on his official vehicle in violation of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, and SRO 55 of 2014 applicable to Jammu and Kashmir.
The applicant placed screenshots and a link to a Facebook video before the court, reportedly showing the Tehsildar giving a roadside media interview from his official vehicle, with a beacon or warning light allegedly affixed to the vehicle.
The court, after examining the application and material placed on record, said a prima facie case had been made out warranting an inquiry into whether the vehicle was fitted with an unauthorised beacon light or multi-toned siren.
The court directed the SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir to inspect the vehicle and ascertain whether it carries a red or blue beacon light and/or multi-toned siren and whether their use is covered by any valid legal authorisation.
It further directed that if an unauthorised beacon or multi-toned siren is found, the inspecting authority shall remove or seize it and initiate action against the vehicle and the person responsible for its use under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, SRO 55 of 2014 and the Supreme Court judgment in Abhay Singh v. State of Uttar Pradesh.
The SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir has also been directed to submit a compliance and inspection report, along with photographs of the vehicle and details of the inspection outcome, within two weeks of receiving the order.
The court directed Tehsildar Tariq Ahmad Shiekh to appear before it, either personally or through counsel, on the next date of hearing and show cause why appropriate proceedings should not be initiated against him over the alleged unauthorised use of the red beacon or warning light and multi-toned siren.
The matter has been listed for September 10, 2026, for filing of the compliance report and appearance of the Tehsildar. (KNO)