Bengaluru: The State Transport Department has issued a clarification dismissing social media rumours that High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) are no longer mandatory for older vehicles.
Authorities have confirmed that the rule remains unchanged and continues to be in full force across Karnataka.
The clarification, issued on Sunday, April 5, comes amid widespread misinformation claiming that vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, were exempt from installing HSRP.
In its official statement, the Karnataka Transport Department categorically denied the viral claims, urging vehicle owners not to rely on unverified information circulating online.
According to the department, all vehicles registered prior to April 1, 2019, must mandatorily be fitted with High-Security Registration Plates. The rule applies uniformly, with no exemptions granted to any category of vehicles.
Officials pointed out that the mandate is rooted in Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, which was amended by the Central Government in 2018 to introduce HSRP across the country.
Following this, the Karnataka government issued a notification in 2023 making it compulsory for all older vehicles in the state to transition to HSRP. The plates are designed with enhanced security features to prevent vehicle theft, duplication and misuse.
The department also highlighted that the mandate has legal backing. During the hearing of a petition related to HSRP implementation, the court permitted the government to proceed with enforcing the rule.
It further directed that the state government's decision on the installation of high-security number plates must be adhered to, strengthening the legal standing of the directive.
Authorities expressed concern over the spread of misleading information on social media platforms, which has created confusion among vehicle owners. The department stressed that such rumours are baseless and should be ignored.
Vehicle owners have been advised to verify information only through official government sources and notifications.
Reiterating its stance, the transport department has urged all vehicle owners who have not yet installed HSRP to do so immediately through authorised dealers.
Failure to comply with the mandate could result in penalties or legal action as per existing motor vehicle regulations.
With the latest clarification, the Karnataka Transport Department has reaffirmed that HSRP installation remains compulsory for all pre-April 2019 vehicles. The move aims to ensure better vehicle security and regulatory compliance, while also countering the spread of misinformation that could hinder enforcement efforts.