Kerala HC slams MVD over inaction against modified SUV used in Aranmula flood rescue

The Kerala High Court has criticised the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) for failing to act properly against an SUV that had unauthorised lights and other illegal modifications fitted to it, which had been used earlier this month for flood rescue work in Aranmula. 

A bench of Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S looked into cases about road safety and illegal vehicle changes. They reviewed the Transport Commissioner's report on the vehicle and what action had been taken, on August 21. 

The court found out about this private vehicle after two MVD officials in Adoor were suspended. They had issued a challan against the vehicle for illegal changes and for not having a pollution certificate, while it was returning from flood rescue work. 

The court said that according to the Transport Commissioner's report dated August 20, 2026, the MVD Enforcement Wing had only fined the vehicle Rs 5,000, even though it had six extra unauthorised lights fitted, and even after the court had already given directions on this earlier. 

The court said the MVD Enforcement Wing and the police had failed to act against vehicles that had wheels sticking out sideways beyond the vehicle's body or protective covers. This can cause mud or water to splash and put cyclists, two-wheeler riders and pedestrians at risk. 

The court noted that an e-challan issued against the vehicle on March 11, 2024, was still pending. It also said the same vehicle was used again in public with unauthorised lights and other fittings, which was risky for other people on the road. 

The government's special pleader told the court that a proper report from the Transport Commissioner would be submitted and asked for more time to do so. 

The court told the MVD Enforcement Wing and the police to take proper steps to make sure its earlier orders on vehicle modifications are followed strictly. 

The case will be heard again on September 7.  (with inputs from PTI)