Supreme Court Enforces Compliance with High Security Registration Plates and Color-Coded Stickers in NCR

Introduction

In a significant move to enhance vehicular regulation and curb pollution, the Supreme Court of India has mandated strict adherence to the High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) Order, 2018, and the implementation of color-coded stickers for vehicles in the National Capital Region (NCR). This directive aims to streamline vehicle identification and ensure environmental compliance across NCR states.

Mandate on High Security Registration Plates (HSRP)

The Supreme Court's bench, comprising Justice Abhay Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, emphasized the necessity for all vehicles in the NCR to be equipped with HSRPs. These plates are designed to prevent counterfeiting and facilitate easy tracking of vehicles, thereby enhancing security and regulatory oversight. The court's directive specifies that vehicles registered on or after April 1, 2019, must comply with the HSRP provisions. Non-compliance will attract penal action under Section 192(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which deals with using vehicles without registration.

Implementation of Color-Coded Stickers

In addition to HSRPs, the court mandated the use of color-coded stickers to denote the fuel type of vehicles. This system is intended to facilitate easy identification of vehicles based on their fuel emissions, aiding in the enforcement of pollution control measures. The color-coded scheme is part of a broader strategy to mitigate vehicular pollution in the NCR, a region grappling with severe air quality issues.

Restrictions on Vehicle-Related Services

To ensure compliance, the Supreme Court directed NCR states to withhold certain vehicle-related services for non-compliant vehicles. These services include the transfer of ownership, addition or cancellation of hypothecation, change of address, issuance of duplicate registration certificates, and fitness-related activities. Furthermore, the court ordered that no Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates be issued to vehicles lacking HSRPs and the requisite color-coded stickers.

Legal Framework and Enforcement

The court's directives are grounded in the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, particularly Section 39, which prohibits the use of unregistered vehicles in public places. Rule 50(1)(iv) of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, also outlines the specifications for registration plates, reinforcing the legal basis for the enforcement of HSRPs. The Supreme Court's ruling mandates NCR states to initiate drives to identify non-compliant vehicles and enforce penalties as stipulated under Section 192(1) of the Act.

Implications for Vehicle Owners and Authorities

This ruling imposes significant responsibilities on both vehicle owners and state authorities. Vehicle owners in the NCR must ensure their vehicles are equipped with HSRPs and display the appropriate color-coded stickers to access essential services and avoid penalties. State authorities are tasked with implementing the court's directives, conducting compliance drives, and enforcing penalties for non-compliance. This collaborative effort aims to enhance vehicle regulation and address environmental concerns in the region.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court's directive marks a pivotal step towards strengthening vehicular regulation and combating pollution in the National Capital Region. By enforcing compliance with the High Security Registration Plates Order, 2018, and mandating color-coded stickers, the court aims to streamline vehicle identification and promote environmental accountability. This ruling underscores the judiciary's proactive role in addressing pressing environmental and regulatory challenges in India.

Court Practice Community

WhatsApp Group Invite

Join WhatsApp Community