Maharashtra Govt Defends High Security Registration Plate Fees, Rejects Opposition’s Allegations Of Overpricing

The Maharashtra government has dismissed the Opposition’s allegations regarding high fees for high-security registration plates (HSRPs), stating that the prices are comparable to those in other states.

In a statement released on Friday evening, the government emphasized that proper procedures were followed during the tendering process and that a high-power committee had approved the rates.

On Friday, opposition parties NCP (SP) and Congress wrote to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding a probe into the contracts awarded to companies for HSRPs.

HSRPs are specialized license plates designed to prevent vehicle theft and fraudulent activities through enhanced security features. The government has made HSRPs mandatory for vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, extending the deadline for their installation to April 30.

According to the government, the Transport Commissioner’s Office determined the fees based on the committee-approved rates, which include the cost of number plates and fitment charges.

The government stated that HSRP rates in other states (excluding GST) range between ₹420-480 for two-wheelers, ₹450-550 for three-wheelers, and ₹690-800 for four-wheelers and heavy vehicles. In Maharashtra, the charges (excluding GST) are ₹450 for two-wheelers, ₹500 for three-wheelers, and ₹745 for four-wheelers and heavy vehicles.

State Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal and NCP (SP) state chief Jayant Patil have written separate letters to the deputy chief minister, accusing the government of overcharging and demanding an inquiry into the contracts awarded for HSRP implementation.