Dimapur, May 9: The Nagaland government has imposed a statewide ban on the display of religion-based, NGO-based, and other unauthorised slogans, stickers, signages, and identifiers on both private and public vehicles, directing vehicle owners to remove such displays within 45 days.
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The directive was issued through a notification dated April 30, 2026, signed by Robert Longchari, following an advisory from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Government of India. The order is aimed at ensuring compliance with national transport regulations and promoting uniformity in the use of vehicle markings across the state.
According to the notification, the directive has been issued under the provisions of Sections 96(2)(vi) and 111(2)(e) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which empower authorities to regulate the display of markings and other identifiers on vehicles.
Officials stated that the restriction applies to all forms of unauthorised displays on vehicles, including religious slogans, faith-based messages, NGO-related stickers, organisational identifiers, and any other markings that are not specifically permitted under the Motor Vehicles Act and the rules framed thereunder.
The government has instructed all vehicle owners, operators, and transport agencies to ensure that such displays are removed within 45 days from the date of issuance of the notification. The directive applies equally to private vehicles, commercial vehicles, public transport vehicles, and other categories of motor vehicles operating within Nagaland.
Authorities clarified that only markings and identifiers specifically authorised under the law will be permitted. Any display that falls outside the prescribed regulations will be considered a violation of the Motor Vehicles Act.
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The notification further warned that strict action would be initiated against violators who fail to comply with the order within the stipulated timeframe. Such action may include penalties and other measures as provided under the Motor Vehicles Act and associated rules.
Officials said the move is intended to ensure uniform standards in vehicle identification and to prevent the misuse of vehicles for displaying unauthorised affiliations or messages. The government also noted that the decision is in line with directives issued by the Centre and forms part of broader efforts to strengthen compliance with transport regulations.
The state administration has urged vehicle owners to cooperate with the directive and complete the removal of unauthorised stickers, slogans, and signages before the deadline. Authorities expressed hope that the measure would contribute to a more regulated and legally compliant transport system across Nagaland.
