Kerala’s designated Chief Minister VD Satheesan has confirmed that the incoming UDF government will fulfil its manifesto promise to permit non-hazardous vehicle modifications, reassuring the state’s youth who had rallied behind the pledge during the election campaign.

Ahead of the election, a viral Instagram reel featuring Satheesan with the caption “Pillere modify cheyyatte…” (Let the youth modify their vehicles) had garnered over 50 lakh views within 24 hours. In the reel, Satheesan argued that non-dangerous vehicle modifications should not be considered wrong, and that young people’s passion for customising their vehicles should be respected.

“When modifications are done in a non-hazardous way, it is not wrong. It only becomes wrong when done dangerously. We will not permit that. But let them do other modifications. Isn’t it a big dream for young people? They maintain their vehicles beautifully. Let them continue, what is wrong with that?” Satheesan had said in the viral video.

He had also noted that during the Kerala floods, vehicle enthusiasts had come forward with their modified vehicles to help in relief efforts, but were later harassed by authorities. This, he said, prompted the UDF to take the issue seriously and include it in their manifesto.

At a press conference held ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, when asked about the vehicle modification promise, Satheesan responded with a smile. “If we have said it, it will happen. We are all here to implement what we have promised. We are here to turn the aspirations of the people and the dreams of the youth into reality, not just to make empty promises for votes,” he stated.

The assurance has been welcomed by vehicle modification enthusiasts across Kerala, who had been eagerly awaiting clarity on the UDF government’s stance on the issue.