Ramban: The Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Ramban has disqualified the driving licences of three persons involved in serious illegal activities, including bovine smuggling.
As per official orders issued by the ARTO, Driving Licence No. JK1920180000395 issued in favour of Mohammad Akram S/o Mohd Rafiq Khan, R/o Shaban Bass, Banihal, Licence No. JK1920250001293 issued in favour of Mohammad Yasir S/o Mohd Younis, R/o Ward No. 3, Tatrsoo, Ramban, and Licence No. JK1920120002911 issued in favour of Imtiaz Ahmed S/o Mohammad Yaqoob, R/o Chanderkote, have been disqualified for a period of three months with immediate effect.
The action follows the registration of criminal cases by the Police Department against the licence holders for illegal transportation of bovine animals, an offence having the potential to disturb public order and hurt religious sentiments.
The disqualification has been effected under Section 19 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, read with Rule 21 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1991, after following due legal procedure
Prior to issuing the orders, show-cause notices were served to the licence holders, providing them an opportunity of being heard in accordance with the principles of natural justice. However, the replies submitted were found unsatisfactory by the Licensing Authority.
The decision was taken on the recommendations of the Police Department and Transport Authorities, in line with the directions of the Supreme Court of India and the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety, which mandate strict action against misuse of motor vehicles for criminal activities.
As per the ARTO, 58 driving licences have been suspended/ disqualified in the current year 2025 for different violations, while show-cause notices have been issued to 15 other licence holders.
The Transport Department has reiterated its commitment to ensuring road safety and preventing unlawful use of vehicles in Ramban district.