The Jammu and Kashmir administration has taken a decisive step toward tightening transparency and curbing misuse in the resale and transfer of registered vehicles. In a major regulatory move, the government has introduced fresh, stricter operational guidelines that make it mandatory for all dealers handling registered vehicles to be officially authorised before conducting any transactions.
According to officials, the Transport Commissioner’s office issued a detailed circular outlining the new framework, following the latest notification from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The goal is clear: stop fraudulent transfers, ensure digital accountability, and bring order to a sector that directly affects public safety and economic activity.
Under the updated system, every entity dealing in resale, stocking, or handling of registered vehicles must obtain compulsory authorisation, supported by complete digital traceability through the VAHAN platform. This digital-first mechanism ensures all vehicle movements and ownership changes are recorded in real time.
Key provisions include
• Online applications with mandatory physical verification of premises
• Authorisation valid for five years
• Real-time reporting of every vehicle transaction
• Secure custody and storage of all vehicles handled
• KYC compliance and digital record-keeping for both buyers and sellers
Regional Transport Officers, Assistant RTOs, and enforcement personnel have been instructed to actively inspect dealer premises, verify digital entries on VAHAN, and take strict action against any unauthorised operator. After a 21-day window, district police and state tax authorities will also step in, enabling the seizure of vehicles handled without valid authorisation. Existing dealers have a 30-day deadline to become compliant.
“No vehicle transaction will be permitted through non-authorised dealers,” an official clarified, signalling the beginning of a system-wide clean-up.
Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan stated that the new guidelines will help block fraudulent deals, prevent vehicles from falling into the hands of anti-social elements, and establish much-needed transparency in J and K’s resale ecosystem.
Alongside this regulatory overhaul, the government is also accelerating the rollout of the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Policy (RVSF). Transport Secretary Avny Lavasa has directed the department to ensure strict implementation of the policy, which targets vehicles older than 15 years or those declared unfit for road use due to accidents, disasters, or natural wear.
The scrapping process will be conducted using scientific, environmentally conscious methods aligned with the Environment Protection (End of Life of Vehicle) Rules. Lavasa highlighted the economic potential behind the initiative, noting that it could give rise to a strong ecosystem in vehicle scrapping, recycling, dismantling, and logistics.
“This will not only support the economic growth of J and K but also generate significant employment opportunities across various sectors,” she said.
To ensure smooth execution, the government will provide incentives and access to land banks for companies setting up Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities across the Union Territory.
Lavasa emphasised that public participation will be vital. “This policy is forward-thinking and beneficial for both vehicle owners and the overall economy. Engaging with citizens and businesses is key to its success.”
