The District Magistrate of Jammu has imposed a ban on the sale and purchase of accessories used for unauthorized vehicle modifications within the district.
The move has caused concern among dealers and manufacturers of such accessories, who fear possible harassment by law enforcement agencies despite not being directly involved in vehicle modifications.
According to the official order, the sale, purchase, storage, distribution, and display of all motor vehicle accessories intended for or likely to be used in unauthorized modifications—violating Section 52 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988—are prohibited with immediate effect across Jammu district.
The order lists items such as oversized tyres, pressure horns, metallic bumpers, high-intensity halogen lights, tinted or reflective window films, roof rail spoilers, modified exhausts, and similar fittings. These, it says, alter the original manufacturer specifications, compromise roadworthiness, and pose a significant risk to the safety of passengers and pedestrians.
To enforce the order, the Senior Superintendent of Police, Jammu, and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Traffic Jammu, have been directed to coordinate with field officers. Additionally, a joint committee comprising the concerned Tehsildar, Station House Officer (SHO), District Transport Inspector (DTI), and representatives from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) will carry out periodic inspections and submit fortnightly reports to the District Magistrate’s office.
“Any person, firm, or establishment found violating this order shall face penal action under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The prohibited materials will also be subject to seizure,” the order reads.
Meanwhile, the directive has drawn criticism from the accessory dealers and manufacturers, who argue that instead of cracking down on vehicle owners engaging in illegal modifications, the authorities are unfairly targeting the business community. (Sources)
