BJP MLA’s Car Enter Restricted Shimla Mall Road, Police Issue Challan

Munish Sood
Shimla: A vehicle belonging to a BJP MLA, Sudhir Sharma, entered the no-entry zone of Mall Road on Monday, violating strict traffic regulations that prohibit vehicular movement in the area. The car, bearing registration number HP 80 0001, was being driven by the MLA’s driver at the time of the incident. The police promptly issued a challan ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 as per traffic rules.

A video of the incident has gone viral on social media, sparking discussions about VIPs flouting rules meant for the public. The police have reiterated that Mall Road remains off-limits for all vehicles, regardless of their owners’ status.

Vehicle Belongs to BJP MLA, But Presence Unconfirmed

According to the police, the vehicle belongs to BJP MLA from Dharamsala, Sudhir Sharma. However, it is unclear whether he was inside the car when it entered the restricted area. Authorities are yet to confirm his presence at the time of the violation.

MLA Recently Mocked CM’s Car, Now Faces Action

Ironically, this is the same BJP MLA who recently mocked the Chief Minister for arriving in a 22-year-old Alto at the beginning of the budget session. The remarks were meant to highlight the CM’s simplicity, but just days later, the MLA’s own vehicle was caught violating traffic laws, raising questions about double standards.

Recurring VIP Violations on Mall Road

This is not the first time a VIP vehicle has entered a restricted area in Shimla.
• Congress MLA’s Vehicle Also Fined: A few months ago, a Congress MLA’s car was spotted at Ridge Maidan, another no-entry zone. The police issued a challan for that violation as well.
• Past High Court and NGT Actions: Over the years, the High Court and National Green Tribunal (NGT) have enforced strict restrictions on vehicle movement in the sealed and restricted roads of Shimla to control congestion and pollution. Only emergency vehicles and select VIPs are allowed access.
• Lawyers’ Protest Against VIP Exemptions: In the past, legal professionals have protested against selective enforcement, alleging that while common citizens and professionals face strict penalties, certain VIPs receive exemptions.

Equal Rules for All

Authorities have once again emphasized that Shimla’s pedestrian-friendly zones must remain vehicle-free, regardless of rank or political affiliation. The latest incident serves as a reminder that traffic laws apply equally to everyone, including those in power.