Kochi: The High Court ruled that vehicles with All-India Tourist Permit cannot operate as stage carriages. The order is a massive setback for vehicles, such as the bus operated by Robin Travels, that conduct inter-state services under the guise of an All-India Tourist Permit.  

The order came while considering petitions filed by bus owners from Kollam against the fines imposed by the Kerala Motor Vehicle Department (MVD). Previously, bus operators opposed the state MVD's action to penalise them, claiming that vehicles with the All-India Tourist Permit can operate as stage carriers. 

The order also states that the Motor Vehicle Department may fine such vehicles operating in violation of the rules.

Meanwhile, the court granted bail to 'Robin bus' operator Baby Gireesh in a cheque bounce case.