Bengaluru auto drivers fined Rs 5,000 for unauthorized posters and advertisements

Hundreds of auto-rickshaw drivers in Bengaluru are facing hefty fines of Rs 5,000 each for displaying unauthorized posters and advertisements on their vehicles. The city’s Regional Transport Office (RTO) has launched a crackdown, warning that sticking posters, including film promotions, insurance ads, or any form of commercial content on auto-rickshaws without prior permission is a violation of transport laws.

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Many auto drivers, unaware of this regulation, had allowed promotional materials to be pasted on the rear side of their autos for a nominal payment ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 500. However, they are now reeling from fines that are ten times higher, with several complaining they had no prior knowledge of such a rule.

The RTO clarified that any form of advertisement display on commercial vehicles requires official approval, and that unauthorized ads, whether permanent stickers or temporary posters are considered illegal modifications. Even when an auto’s permit, insurance, fitness certificate (FC), and all other documents are in order, the presence of an unapproved poster alone can trigger a penalty.

The crackdown has particularly affected those who displayed film posters, which are widely seen during promotional campaigns. Transport department officials stressed that the law applies equally to all types of advertisements, not just movies.