Karnataka Transport Department has provided a clear clarification for old vehicles in light of misinformation on High Security Registration Plates (HSRP). Contrary to the claims on social media, the department does not have any change in the existing rule and the HSRP number plates will be required for any vehicle registered before April 1, 2019.
The government recently broke down some myths: that HSRP installation must be done in older vehicles. Such claims were dismissed by the department and the agency advised vehicle owners not to believe them and to comply with the rule.
Mandatory Rule In Place
According to the transport department, all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, must have HSRP number plates as required by the central government. This is in line with rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 that calls for uniform and tamper-proof number plates to ensure vehicle security and standardization in the country.
This was implemented in 2018 and enforcement of the rule at the state level started in 2023 following notification by the state. Karnataka has been actively implementing the regulation to ensure compliance among car owners.
No exemptions for vehicle owners
The department said there are no exemptions under this rule. All eligible vehicle owners must install HSRP plates, regardless of the type of vehicle or age, as long as it was registered before the specified date.
And the move is to enhance road safety, prevent vehicle theft and make vehicles more identifiable with standardized number plates with security features like holograms and laser-etched codes, the government has said.
Court Backing for Enforcement
The clarification also comes at the heels of legal proceedings concerning implementation of HSRP. During the hearings on the petitions filed on the matter, the court allowed the government to proceed with enforcement steps and directed that the state’s decision on HSRP installation be followed.
That judicial backing has helped the government to strengthen its position in this case and force compliance on all vehicle owners.
Advisory to Vehicle Owners
The Karnataka Transport Department wants the public to take action (and not just wait for fines or legal action) for HSRP number plates on their vehicles as soon as possible.
The spread of misinformation is spreading fast online and it is only through official announcements and verified sources that updates can be made.
Final Word
The message from the government is clear - HSRP installation is a condition for older vehicles from now on. The enforcement is on and vehicle owners are encouraged to act quickly and take care of it to avoid unnecessary complications.
This clarification in itself brings much-needed clarity, and the rule remains unchanged despite rumours to the contrary.
