Caste name on bike? Get ready for big fines!

It is a common practice in India for vehicle users to have the caste names printed on their vehicles. But this isn’t going to be an economically feasible option in Uttar Pradesh henceforth as the CM of the state Yogi Adityanath is going to crack down on the same.

The Uttar Pradesh government has started a strict action against vehicles showing caste or religion through stickers, writings, or signs.

In a 10-day drive, traffic police in districts like Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar issued more than 2,300 challans (fines). Many cars were found carrying words like “Yadav,” “Thakur,” “Jaat,” or other caste identities.

According to the rules, only the registration number is allowed on the number plate. If someone writes caste names or slogans there, they must pay a fine of ₹5,000. If caste-based stickers or writings are placed on other parts of the car, the fine is ₹1,000. Officials also said that repeat violations can lead to vehicles being seized.

This action follows an Allahabad High Court order which said caste should not be mentioned in police records such as FIRs, arrest forms, or recovery memos. The court also asked for removal of caste displays from vehicles, calling such glorification “anti-national” and harmful to equality.

The government’s step is meant to stop identity-based divisions in society and to promote constitutional values of equality and secularism. Authorities have warned that the drive will continue, and violators will face strict punishment.