This ruling prompted the MVD to amend its registration processes. In a significant policy shift, the motor vehicles department (MVD) announced that individuals with a permanent address in the state can now register their vehicles at any regional transport office (RTO), regardless of their jurisdiction. This decision comes in response to a recent high court verdict that emphasised adherence to central transport regulations.
Previously, vehicle owners had to register their vehicles only at the RTO corresponding to their residential address. This rule was challenged by a vehicle owner who sought registration in Attingal but was denied. The high court ruled in favour of the applicant, stating that the registration process should align with the provisions outlined in Section 40 of the Motor Vehicles Act and the advisory issued by the central govt.
The court's order clarified, "Considering the language implied in Section 40 of the MV Act and advisory issued by central govt, it is evident that the jurisdiction is in respect of the state and not in respect of the registering authority for registering the motor vehicle. A person residing in a state or having a place of business in a particular state can get the motor vehicle registered by any of the registering authorities of that state."
This ruling prompted the MVD to amend its registration processes. With the registration system now fully online, applicants have the flexibility to choose where to register their vehicles. Now, an individual purchasing a vehicle in Thiruvananthapuram and later relocating to Kasaragod can register the vehicle at the RTO office in Kasaragod.
Transport commissioner C Nagaraju confirmed that changes to the registration software are underway to facilitate this new process. Additionally, he warned that private vehicles should not be used for commercial purposes as such usage would classify them as rented vehicles.
