Massive Crackdown on Traffic Offenders in Punjab
Punjab has witnessed an unprecedented crackdown on traffic law violators, with thousands of vehicles seized and First Information Reports (FIRs) registered across the state. The primary focus of the recent enforcement drive is a single yet crucial violation—failure to affix High Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) on vehicles. Initiated by the Punjab Police in collaboration with the transport department, the campaign aims to improve road safety, enforce regulatory compliance, and enhance the traceability of vehicles across the region.
HSRP Mandate and Public Response
High Security Registration Plates are tamper-proof license plates introduced by the government of India to reduce vehicle-related crimes and aid in quick identification. Despite the mandatory directive issued years ago, compliance levels in Punjab remained low. The authorities, after multiple warnings and awareness campaigns, finally launched an aggressive enforcement drive in June 2025.
As a result, over 80,000 vehicles have reportedly been impounded across various districts in Punjab. Districts such as Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala, and Jalandhar reported the highest number of seizures. In addition, FIRs have been registered against thousands of defaulters, especially repeat offenders who continued to flout the mandate even after receiving warnings.
Legal Framework Behind the Action
The action against non-compliant vehicle owners is backed by provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The Act empowers law enforcement agencies to seize vehicles operating without valid registration details or number plates, including the newly mandated HSRPs. According to officials, vehicles lacking these plates pose challenges in case of thefts, hit-and-run accidents, and crimes involving motor vehicles.
Authorities emphasize that FIRs have been filed primarily under Sections 192 and 207 of the Motor Vehicles Act, along with relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code in cases of forged or tampered plates. Offenders can face penalties ranging from monetary fines to court trials, depending on the nature and frequency of the violation.
Public Reactions and Rising Concerns
While the government maintains that the enforcement is a necessary step toward safer roads and better governance, public opinion is divided. Many citizens claim the sudden implementation has caused chaos, with long queues at registration centers and insufficient availability of HSRPs contributing to delays. Vehicle owners have also raised concerns about the transparency of the drive and alleged instances of arbitrary vehicle impoundment.
On the other hand, a section of the public has welcomed the strict action, acknowledging the importance of a unified and secure vehicle identification system. Road safety advocates argue that effective regulation, including the use of tamper-proof plates, will play a key role in curbing crime and maintaining accountability on the roads.
Administrative Efforts to Address Challenges
In response to growing public frustration, the Punjab transport department has taken steps to streamline the HSRP issuance process. Additional registration counters have been set up across major cities, and the online booking system has been upgraded to handle increased traffic. Moreover, authorities have announced a grace period of up to 15 days for those who have already applied for the plates but are awaiting installation.
Officials have also clarified that vehicles registered before April 2019 were most likely to be affected, as newer models generally come with pre-installed HSRPs. As a precautionary measure, the transport department has instructed Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to prioritize applications from such owners.
Impact on Traffic Patterns and Law Enforcement
The large-scale seizure of vehicles has had a visible impact on daily traffic in several cities. Police barricades and mobile checking units have become a common sight, especially near toll plazas, major intersections, and city borders. Law enforcement agencies have increased surveillance using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras to identify vehicles without HSRPs.
Meanwhile, police officials report that the operation has helped uncover other violations such as expired insurance, pollution control non-compliance, and fake documentation. Many believe that this focused enforcement initiative could serve as a blueprint for similar actions in other states.
Future of Vehicle Regulation in Punjab
With this drive, the Punjab government has signaled a stricter stance on vehicular compliance. As digitization and smart infrastructure continue to evolve, initiatives like mandatory HSRPs are expected to become integral to urban governance. While the current wave of enforcement may appear harsh, officials assert that it sets the tone for a more secure and accountable transportation system in the state.
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