TGHRC takes suo motu note of misuse of state emblems, press symbols on vehicles
HYDERABAD: The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of three vehicles displaying unauthorised and misleading human rights-related designations, government emblems, and other prohibited markings across the state.
Commission flags misuse of state emblems and designations
The Commission, registering the matter under SR No.3095/2025 and HRC No.1/2025, observed that such displays violated provisions of the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, the Motor Vehicles Act, and related laws.
Multiple departments directed to submit reports
In its order, the TGHRC directed the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, Transport Commissioner, Bar Council, Information and Public Relations Department, and Registrar of Societies to submit action taken reports by November 24, 2025. The Commission has also sought explanations from the concerned vehicle owners.
Vehicles found violating emblem and title laws
The first vehicle, a taxi (registration TS-17-T-3437) owned by Bari Naveen Kumar, was found displaying multiple unauthorised insignia — “State General Secretary of Human Rights,” an advocate symbol, the Ashoka emblem, and a red “PRESS” sticker. The vehicle also has 12 pending challans amounting to ₹6,785.
A second vehicle, a Fortuner SUV (TG-09-A-8485) owned by Alugaddala Bhoorathnam Govind, carried the title “International Human Rights Protection Commission – Senior Vice President, Telangana State” and allegedly used a siren on public roads, which is restricted to emergency vehicles under Rule 119 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
The third, a Mahindra Scorpio (TS-09-ES-4687) registered to Mohammed Habeeb, bore the label “Human Rights & Social Justice Mission – Telangana State Chief Co-ordinator,” potentially misleading the public regarding official status.
Concern over misuse of official symbols
Officials said the use of government insignia and human rights or press-related labels on private vehicles could mislead the public and obstruct lawful enforcement. The TGHRC stressed that such misuse undermines the integrity of statutory designations and public trust.
