Vehicle enthusiasts face setback,; centre rules out state-level modification relaxations

NEW DELHI: State governments do not have the authority to independently prescribe standards for vehicle modifications, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari told the Rajya Sabha, clarifying that the subject is governed by central laws and prescribed standards.

Replying to a question from V. Sivadasan, Gadkari said even modifications that are otherwise permissible must conform to standards notified by the Central Government and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. He added that state governments have only limited powers to regulate vehicle speed limits in the interest of public safety.

The minister said vehicle modifications that comply with central norms may be carried out only at state-approved workshops or authorised service stations. Vehicle owners must obtain prior approval from the registering authority through Form 22C before undertaking any modification. After the work is completed, the changes must be recorded in the vehicle's Registration Certificate within 14 days, he said in a written reply.

Gadkari further said the basic specifications of a vehicle recorded in the Registration Certificate by the manufacturer cannot be altered under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.

During the discussion, Sivadasan asked the state government to clarify what types of vehicle modifications, if any, had been permitted beyond the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. He also cautioned that the spread of incorrect information on the issue could leave vehicle owners facing penalties and registration-related action.

The clarification comes amid discussions in Kerala over vehicle modification norms. The issue was among the promises in the UDF's election manifesto. After assuming office, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan said the government would consider permitting safe vehicle modifications while continuing to prohibit hazardous alterations, following which certain relaxations were announced. Gadkari's reply reiterates that any modifications must remain within the framework prescribed under central law.