15,849 vehicles with same chassis, engine number registered in multiple Northeast States: CAG

15,849 vehicles with same chassis, engine number registered in multiple Northeast States: CAG

**Northeast States Face Scrutiny Over Irregularities in Vehicle Registrations and School Bus Permits**

**Guwahati, Assam** – A recent comprehensive audit has brought to light significant discrepancies in vehicle registrations and the issuance of contract carriage permits for school buses across several northeastern states. The findings, detailed in a government audit report, indicate that a substantial number of vehicles, identified by identical chassis and engine numbers, have been registered in multiple states within the region. Furthermore, the report highlights a concerning practice in Assam where contract carriage permits for school buses have been issued in a manner that circumvents mandatory fitness testing protocols.

The audit, which aimed to assess the efficacy and compliance of vehicle registration and permit issuance processes, uncovered a systemic issue involving the duplication of unique vehicle identification markers. The registration of 15,849 vehicles with identical chassis and engine numbers across different northeastern states raises serious questions about the integrity of the vehicle registration database and the potential for fraudulent activities. Such a widespread duplication could lead to a range of problems, including difficulties in tracking vehicle ownership, insurance claims, and importantly, the identification of vehicles involved in accidents or criminal activities. The report suggests a lack of robust inter-state coordination and data verification mechanisms, creating vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

Adding to these concerns, the audit report specifically zeroes in on the operational practices concerning school buses in Assam. It has been revealed that the process of granting contract carriage permits for these vital passenger vehicles has, in numerous instances, bypassed the crucial mandatory fitness tests. School buses are entrusted with the safety of children, and regular, stringent fitness inspections are paramount to ensure their roadworthiness and the well-being of their young passengers. The circumvention of these tests implies that a number of school buses may be operating without meeting the required safety standards, posing an unacceptable risk to students.

The implications of these audit findings are far-reaching. For the duplicated vehicle registrations, the lack of clear ownership and identification could undermine law enforcement efforts and compromise public safety. It also suggests a potential for tax evasion and the operation of unregistered or illegally modified vehicles. In the context of school bus permits, the bypassing of fitness tests is a direct threat to child safety. It points towards possible administrative lapses, corruption, or a systemic disregard for established safety regulations within the transport department.

Authorities are now under pressure to address these critical issues with urgency. The report is expected to trigger investigations into the registration process and the issuance of permits, with a view to identifying responsible parties and implementing corrective measures. Strengthening inter-state data sharing and verification protocols will be crucial to prevent future instances of duplicated registrations. In Assam, immediate action is required to ensure that all school buses undergo rigorous fitness assessments before being permitted to operate, and that the integrity of the permit issuance system is restored. The safety and security of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, depend on the effective and transparent functioning of these regulatory frameworks. The audit serves as a stark reminder of the need for continuous vigilance and robust oversight in public administration.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.