Kerala licence printing dues cleared, RC distribution still delayed

Thiruvananthapuram: The backlog in the distribution of driving licence cards has been cleared, allowing daily licences to be printed and distributed the following day. However, challenges with vehicle registration certificates (RC) still persist.

Challenges with RC issuance

Currently, about 4.5 lakh RC certificates are pending distribution. The issue arose when ITI Palakkad, the central public sector organisation contracted to print the RCs, halted the printing due to unpaid fees amounting to Rs 14.62 crore.

Minister K. B. Ganeshkumar had expressed frustration over this situation, announcing plans to print licences and RCs directly, bypassing the contract with ITI Palakkad. However, this transition has not yet taken place. The process to cancel the contract has not yet been completed as well.

MVD takes action

Kerala Motor Vehicle Department initially planned to handle the printing and distribution of RCs internally. However, this has also not been implemented, and the necessary procedures are still in development.

The MVD has decided to print RCs only for individuals who specifically request them after making the required payment. To facilitate this, new software will need to be set up to ensure that only those in need have to pay for the RCs.

The original copy of the vehicle registration certificate is still required for various purposes, including obtaining permits.