Minister Instructs Officers to Change 11-Year-Old Practices, Adopt People-Centric Approach
Imran Naikoo
Srinagar, Dec 19 : The recent crackdown by Jammu and Kashmir Government on vehicles bearing outside registration numbers has brought renewed focus on a 2021 High Court ruling that barred the Transport Department from levying token tax on such vehicles during re-registration in J&K.
Several vehicle owners have complained that despite clear court directions, transport authorities continue to demand a 9 per cent token tax, allegedly delaying the re-registration process. A number of affected citizens have even contemplated legal action, citing repeated non-compliance with judicial orders.
Reacting to the issue, Jammu and Kashmir Transport Minister Satish Sharma, while speaking to Gulistan News, said the government is committed to safeguarding public interest and ensuring that policies benefit people and businesses alike.
“We are a welfare state. Whatever people want in public interest will be done. We are servants of the people and our mandate is to work for their welfare,” the Minister said.
He stressed that outdated practices need to change and directed officers to align their functioning with the spirit of public service. “Some habits developed over the last 11 years must change. Officers need to understand this clearly,” Sharma said
The Minister assured that the government will issue necessary directions wherever required to protect people’s interests, promote ease of doing business and ensure that both transporters and the general public benefit.
“We will support every step that benefits transporters, helps people and boosts business. This government will do whatever is needed in that direction,” he added.
The issue has triggered a broader debate over compliance with court orders and the functioning of the transport department. Vehicle owners and other stakeholders have demanded clear instructions from the government to end confusion, ensure transparency and prevent unnecessary harassment of the public.
