MAM
Advertisements on state-owned buses banned during Elections
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission (EC) has banned the display of political advertisements on State Road Transport Corporation buses and vehicles owned by Municipal Corporations etc, and other government owned vehicles when the Model Code of Conduct is in force for State Assembly or Legislative Council elections.
The Commission, which has already banned such advertisements through hoardings and posters, said “it wanted a level-playing field for all parties since state-owned buses or the corporations were necessarily run by the ruling parties.”
It also added that the action was taken after having duly considered all aspects of the matter in exercise of its powers under Article 324 (1) of the Constitution, and in the interest of conduct of free and fair elections.
The Commission’s circular letter of 7 October 2008 contains the instructions and guidelines to be followed in the matter of display of election related advertisements through hoardings, banners, posters etc. It mainly deala with advertisements on static property and regarding display of flags and stickers on private vehicles.
It can also be noted that there may be cases where advertisement-panels on buses are let out to advertising agencies for allocation to various clients during certain periods as per the contract entered into by them.
EC also stressed that a level playing field envisaged under the Model Code of Conduct is a very vital aspect for ensuring free and fair elections. “A party should not be in a position to take undue advantage on account of it being in power in the government. This will put the other parties and contestants at a disadvantageous position and will disturb the level playing field, adversely affecting the fairness of election.”
“There is reasonable likelihood that the allotment of advertisement spaces on such vehicles is likely to be manipulated more so in politically important constituencies and as such it will not be easy to ensure equitable distribution of advertisement space on the buses,” the Commission concluded.
Many drivers assume basic coverage is just a formality until an accident involving someone else brings legal notices, compensation claims, and unexpected financial pressure. At that point, the real importance of car insurance becomes clear. A single road incident can quickly create obligations that are difficult to manage alone.
In this blog, you will learn how third-party online cover supports legal safety, what it includes, and why securing it online is a smart first step.
Why Third-Party Insurance is Legally Mandatory
Indian motor law requires vehicles used on public roads to carry third-party liability cover. The intent is to protect the public by ensuring there is a recognised route for compensation when a vehicle causes harm to others.
If a vehicle is driven without this cover, penalties can apply, and the owner may have to pay the compensation amount personally if legal liability is decided against them. This helps ensure that people who suffer loss are not left without support.
How Third-Party Online Insurance Works
When third party car insurance is purchased online, the proposer shares vehicle and personal details, pays the premium, and receives the policy document in digital form. The cover applies during the policy period and provides legal liability protection for others arising from the use of the insured vehicle.
If an incident leads to a claim, the process usually involves reporting, submitting required papers, and following the steps set by the authority handling the matter.
What is Covered Under Third-Party Insurance?
This cover is designed to pay for losses suffered by others when legal liability is established. The response depends on the policy terms, the evidence, and the decision made during the claim proceedings.
Bodily Injury to Third Party
If someone else is injured in an accident involving the insured vehicle, the policy can cover the insured person’s legal liability. Compensation is assessed using medical records and other supporting documents, along with findings on responsibility. Payment is made based on the final compensation amount decided in the case, as per the policy terms.
Property Damage
If another person’s property is damaged, the policy can respond to the insured person’s liability for that loss, within the limit mentioned in the policy. The amount is generally based on documents that support ownership and the assessed repair or replacement cost. Timely reporting and clear paperwork can reduce delays in assessment.
Legal Support During Claim Proceedings
Third-party claims can involve notices, hearings, and filings because they focus on legal liability. Under the policy terms, the insurer may assist in organising documents and managing parts of the defence process through appointed representatives. This can support orderly communication and reduce missed deadlines.
What is Not Covered
Third-party cover is narrow, so some common expenses are excluded. These exclusions are common, but the exact details depend on the policy terms.
● Damage to the insured vehicle is not covered, including repair costs.
● Loss or damage to the insured person’s belongings is not covered.
● Injury cover for the owner-driver or passengers is typically separate.
● Claims linked to use that breaches policy terms may not be payable.
● Contractual promises beyond legal liability are generally not included unless stated.
Why Buying Online Strengthens Legal Safety
Buying online does not change legal duties, but it can make compliance easier to maintain and easier to prove. Digital records also support clarity if cover dates are questioned after an incident.
● Digital issuance can reduce the risk of an accidental gap in cover.
● A stored e-policy can be retrieved quickly when proof is requested.
● Receipts and time stamps help confirm when the policy was active.
● Online renewals can support timely payment and avoid lapsed cover.
● Clear documents make limits and required steps easier to understand.
Conclusion
Third-party liability cover is a direct step towards legal protection because it covers losses suffered by others when a vehicle causes harm. It supports compliance and reduces the risk of penalties for uninsured driving. Buying online can help keep policy documents, dates, and receipts easy to retrieve during checks and claim proceedings. When the cover’s scope and exclusions are understood in advance, it becomes easier to stay compliant, prepared, and confident on the road.
