Tech: Tampering with vehicle number plates to evade roadside CCTV cameras could lead to fines and imprisonment..

Traffic regulations on the roads have become quite strict. Adhering to these rules while driving is crucial, as a mistake on your part not only causes you harm but also inconveniences other vehicles on the road. Many major accidents today occur precisely because of traffic rule violations. When driving, you must keep several rules in mind—such as wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler or fastening your seatbelt in a four-wheeler—otherwise, you could be fined. However, some drivers are currently tampering with their number plates to evade these fines.

Nowadays, traffic violations are often detected via CCTV cameras installed at traffic lights, and fines are issued to vehicle owners online. To avoid this, some people are tampering with their vehicle's number plates. It is important to note, however, that the Motor Vehicles Act mandates legal action and fines for any form of number plate tampering or concealment.

**Rules Regarding Number Plates**
Under Rules 50 and 51 of the Motor Vehicles Act, the numbers and letters on your vehicle's number plate must be clearly visible. Only number plates issued by the Transport Department are valid; altering the design or obscuring the plate in any way is prohibited.

**Fines for Number Plate Tampering**
There are provisions for fines if a vehicle's number plate is tampered with. A first-time offense can result in a fine of ₹5,000, while a repeat offense can lead to a fine of ₹10,000. Altering the vehicle's registration number or using a fake number plate can lead to a formal case being registered against the owner, potentially resulting in imprisonment.

You are also prohibited from sticking anything onto the number plate; people sometimes apply tape to obscure the numbers. Displaying caste, designation, or slogans on number plates is also prohibited. Additionally, one cannot use a broken number plate; doing so can also result in a fine.