Kia Sonet Owner Fined By Chandigarh Police For Company-Fitted Sunshades; Here’s The Law

Company-Fitted Sunshades Legal:  A video of a Kia Sonet owner recently went viral on the social media platform X. The video shows an argument between Chandigarh Traffic Police and the owner as he is fined for company-fitted sunshades. This incident has once again sparked the debate, whether sunshades are legal or not, and whether company-fitted sunshades are also illegal. Let’s dive in and take a look at what the law says.

Are Sunshades Legal In India?

The Supreme Court of India ruled in 2012 that any kind of object that obstructs visibility in a vehicle, including Sunshades and tints, will be considered illegal. Except for VIP vehicles, other vehicles in the country cannot use a Tint or a sunshade. However, it is worth noting that there are visibility standards, and if your tint or sunshade adheres to these standards, you can use it.

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The Visibility Standard

The legal visibility standards apply to all categories of vehicles, which means that these standards also apply to the company-fitted sunshades or tints. As per the standards, the sunshade or tint used in the windshield and the rear windshield should have a minimum 70 percent VLT (Visual Light Transmission). The side windows of the car should have a minimum 50 percent VLT, as per the law.

Are Company-Fitted Sunshades Illegal?

Car manufacturers make sure that their products are made and developed as per the laws and regulations of the country where they will be sold. It means that if your car company is providing a sunshade installed, it already follows the law of having a 50 percent VLT for side windows and a 70 percent VLT for the front and rear windshields.