Star pacer gets notice from RTO to stop using new SUV
Dubai: Fresh off his match-winning exploits in the India-England Test series, Akash Deep returned home to fulfil a personal milestone — buying his “dream” car. The 28-year-old fast-bowler proudly posed with his sisters beside a gleaming black Toyota Fortuner, sharing the moment on Instagram with the caption: “Dream delivered. Keys received. With the ones who matter most.”
But within days of the celebratory post, the Bengal seamer’s joy turned into a legal headache. According to Times of India, The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Lucknow has served him a notice, ordering him to stop using the SUV until its registration is completed and the mandatory high-security registration plate (HSRP) and third registration mark (TRM) are installed.
Akash Deep was one of India’s breakout stars during the just-concluded five-Test series against England, which ended 2-2. Playing only three Tests, he claimed 13 wickets, including a career-best 10-wicket haul in the second Test at Edgbaston — a performance that earned him widespread praise.
His return to India last week was marked by the purchase of the Fortuner’s top model, worth over Rs 6.2 million. According to official records, the SUV was sold on August 7, insured on August 8, and assigned the fancy registration number UP32 QW 0041 on August 9.
However, the RTO found that the temporary registration/registration certificate process was incomplete on the Vahan portal. The absence of HSRP and TRM meant the vehicle was in violation of Sections 39 and 41(6) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
“The notice warns that driving the vehicle in its current state constitutes an offence under Section 192 of the MVA and empowers authorities to seize or detain the vehicle under Section 207,” the report said. The cricketer has been given 72 hours to appear before authorities with proof of registration, insurance, and tax payment.
Dealer in the dock
The controversy has also ensnared the Lucknow-based dealership that sold the vehicle. Officials allege the dealer failed to complete registration formalities or fit the SUV with the required HSRP before delivery.
High Security Registration Plates are tamper-proof number plates mandated by the Indian government to prevent theft and counterfeiting. They feature a chromium hologram, laser-etched serial number, and non-removable snap lock fittings, making duplication nearly impossible. TRM, meanwhile, is an additional sticker containing key vehicle details, affixed to the windscreen.
For now, Akash Deep’s prized possession will remain off the road until the paperwork is cleared. It’s an unusual turn of events for a player whose recent weeks have been defined by on-field triumphs — and a reminder that off-field rules can be just as strict as those in the game.
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