HSRP mandatory for old vehicles, says transport department; warns against rumours

Bengaluru, : The Karnataka Transport Department has clarified that installation of High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) remains mandatory for older vehicles, dismissing recent media reports suggesting otherwise as false and misleading.

In an official statement, the department urged the public not to fall for rumours circulating in certain television channels and other platforms claiming that HSRP is not compulsory for vehicles registered before April 1, 2019.

The clarification comes amid growing confusion among vehicle owners regarding the implementation of the rule. According to the department, the Central Government had issued a notification under Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, on December 4, 2018, mandating the installation of HSRP for all vehicles registered prior to April 1, 2019.

Following this, the Karnataka government issued its own notification on August 17, 2023, making it compulsory for all such vehicles in the state to install high-security number plates.

However, the matter is currently under consideration before the Karnataka High Court. The court had directed that no coercive action or hurried decisions be taken by the state government regarding enforcement until further orders. The case has been referred to a single-judge bench for hearing the grievances of petitioners.

Despite this, officials clarified that there is no stay on the original notification mandating HSRP installation. “While the court has restrained the government from taking strict enforcement actions, the rule itself remains valid. Vehicle owners are expected to comply,” the department stated.

The Transport Department emphasized that HSRP plates are introduced to enhance vehicle security, prevent theft, and ensure uniformity in registration systems across the country.

Authorities have appealed to citizens to rely only on official announcements and verified sources for information. With misinformation spreading rapidly, the department reiterated that installation of HSRP for older vehicles is still compulsory and advised vehicle owners to take necessary steps without delay.