Controversy Over Impounding of Out-of-State Omni-Buses in Tamil Nadu

The State Transport and Road Safety Commissionerate of Tamil Nadu has begun impounding omni-buses registered outside the state, following the expiration of the re-registration deadline. Private operators criticize the move, arguing it contradicts the Central government’s All India Tourist Permit Rules, 2023, designed to facilitate seamless interstate vehicle movement.

Advocate S. Mahesh Sahasranaman highlighted a Supreme Court stay on border tax collection, pending a final verdict. Despite this, state officials emphasize that the current impoundment pertains to re-registration compliance, not tax collection. Over 60 omni-buses have been impounded recently, prompting operators to plan a Supreme Court appeal.