Transport department requires the installation of HSRP on old vehicles

Manufacturers’ and Sellers’ Association opposes this mandate

Transport department states HSRPs are mandated for security reason

Manufacturers and sellers of conventional vehicle number plates in Karnataka have expressed their opposition to the transport department’s recent mandate, which requires the installation of high-security registration plates (HSRP) on all old vehicles purchased prior to April 1, 2019.

The Akhila Karnataka Vehicle Number Plates Manufacturers’ and Sellers’ Association has raised concerns that this notification is adversely affecting the livelihoods of more than 25,000 manufacturers and sellers.

They allege that the department’s decision has funneled a substantial Rs 1,200-crore business opportunity exclusively to a select group of HSRP manufacturers located outside the state.

S Satheesh, the president of the Akhila Karnataka Vehicle Number Plates Manufacturers’ and Sellers’ Association, pointed out that the notification specifies that original equipment manufacturers and vehicle dealers can only obtain HSRPs from sources authorized by vehicle manufacturers.

Satheesh contends that this approach contradicts the Central Motor Vehicles Act and Rules, urging authorities to permit associations like his to collaborate with HSRP manufacturers to offer new number plates to customers.

In response to these allegations, the transport department has denied any wrongdoing, stating that HSRPs are mandated for security reasons.

Currently, vehicle manufacturers have partnerships with authorized HSRP manufacturers to supply these plates to vehicle dealers.

HSRP (High Security Registration Plates) are notable for their distinctive features, including a permanent identification number and a chromium-based hologram. They are designed to be tamper-proof and counterfeit-resistant, contributing to the standardization of registration plates and enhancing the identification of vehicles on the road.