Police in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, fined a man ₹5,500 [2] after his girlfriend covered his car with lipstick kiss marks.
The incident highlights the intersection of social-media trends and local traffic enforcement, as authorities crack down on vehicle modifications that violate appearance regulations.
According to reports, the man's vehicle was adorned with approximately 3,400 lipstick marks [1]. The stunt was intended to replicate a popular social-media trend, resulting in a viral video that garnered 5.5 million views [3].
Local police intervened after the vehicle became a public sensation. Officers said the owner violated traffic regulations regarding the appearance of the vehicle. In addition to the ₹5,500 fine [2], police said the man must wipe the lipstick marks off the car before it could return to the road [4].
The practice of creating viral "reels" has led to various public disturbances across India. In this case, the effort to gain digital traction resulted in a financial penalty and a manual cleaning requirement. The police action serves as a reminder that vehicle aesthetics are subject to legal standards, regardless of the intent behind the modification.
Authorities in Gwalior said traffic laws apply to all vehicles on public roads. The man complied with the order to clean the vehicle after the fine was issued [4].
“His car was covered with about 3,400 lipstick kiss marks”
This incident reflects a growing tension between the 'attention economy' of social media and municipal law enforcement. As users increasingly use public spaces and vehicles as props for viral content, police are using fines to deter stunts that they categorize as traffic violations or public nuisances.
