The Maharashtra government has announced that High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) will be compulsory for all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, with a deadline set for August 15. Failure to comply may result in penalties for vehicle owners.
However, several vehicle owners have raised concerns over unauthorised charges being demanded at HSRP installation centres. At one such centre near Dabha Square in Nagpur, customers are reportedly being charged ₹100 to remove old number plates. Those unwilling to pay the amount are being asked to dismantle the plates themselves.
Many owners say they feel coerced, as the HSRP can only be installed after booking a slot and making an online payment. Nowhere in the booking process is there any mention of an additional fee for removing existing plates.
The issue has proven particularly troublesome for women vehicle owners, who have found it challenging to remove the plates on their own and have reported inconvenient or intimidating experiences at some centres.
In addition to this, several customers have alleged that certain centres are pressuring them to buy number plate covers, which are not mandatory. This has sparked criticism over lack of regulation and the need for stricter oversight at authorised HSRP centres.
Vehicle owners are urging authorities to intervene and ensure a transparent, hassle-free installation process ahead of the approaching deadline.
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