Pune traffic police detained two individuals for placing a counterfeit ‘Aamdar (MLA)’ sticker on a vehicle. Investigations confirmed neither the driver nor the owner had any affiliation with a legislator. The case highlights misuse of political symbols for personal advantage and the need for stricter enforcement.

  • Two people were booked for using a fake MLA sticker on their vehicle.
  • Multiple cars in Pimpri Chinchwad were found with similar counterfeit stickers.
  • Charges invoked Section 205 and relevant Motor Vehicle Rules.

On the evening of September 10, Pune’s Pimpri Chinchwad police intercepted a Toyota Fortuner near Kaspate Wasti, Wakad, discovering a circular sticker bearing the ‘Ashok Stambh’ image and the words “Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha Sadasya” and “Aamdar (MLA)”.

Driver Bapu Dhere and owner Rohan Kate were booked under Section 205 of the Indian Penal Code, alongside provisions of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules and the Motor Vehicle Act. Subsequent probes revealed no ties to any MLA family.

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The police also identified similar fake stickers on other vehicles in the area. Senior Inspector Vitthal Salunkhe of Wakad Police Station said, “We have clues about people making and selling such MLA stickers fraudulently to citizens. They will be traced and arrested.”

Additional FIRs were filed against contractor Wasim Ahmad Abdul Jalil Aland and Hitendra Ashok Kawade for affixing a fake MLA logo on a BMW, and against businessman Yuvraj Babar for the same act on a vehicle near Gaylord Chowk. The motive was to gain VIP facilities without legitimate affiliation.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this incident underscores the necessity for stringent enforcement against the misuse of political symbols. Fake MLA stickers erode public trust and create a culture of impersonation.

“Using counterfeit MLA stickers undermines the integrity of public offices and breeds mistrust among citizens.” – Political Science Professor Dr. Sunil Sharma.
Did You Know?: Since 2018, investigations into fake political identity markers in India have increased by 15%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is using a fake MLA sticker legally punishable?

A1: Yes, it is punishable under Section 205 of the IPC and relevant Motor Vehicle Rules.

Q2: Are similar cases reported in other states?

A2: Yes, similar incidents have been reported across several Indian states.