23-05-2025
'UK' No More? Uttarakhand Proposes Hindi Vehicle Number Plates, Internet Divided
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The language department has suggested replacing the current registration code 'UK' (Uttarakhand) with its Hindi equivalent, 'U' (Uttara) and 'Kha' (Khand)
Uttarakhand's language department has recently proposed the introduction of vehicle number plates in Hindi, causing a stir online.
Some users praised the initiative for promoting the language, while others found it unnecessary and impractical.
The department has suggested replacing the current registration code 'UK" (Uttarakhand) with its Hindi equivalent, 'U" (Uttara) and 'Kha" (Khand). This recommendation has been forwarded to the state's transport department for review.
All Indian states and union territories have a designated two-letter code. This code referencing came into force on July 1, 1989, as part of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Before that, each district or RTO had three-letter codes at their disposal, which did not clearly identify the state. This led to a fair degree of confusion, and to avoid this ambiguity, a unique state code was included in the format.
'In an effort to promote Hindi, we have sent a proposal to the transport department to explore the possibility of introducing number plates in Hindi," stated Subodh Uniyal, Uttarakhand's minister for languages.
Social media reactions have been mixed.
'This is a ridiculous decision," commented Ashok Kandari on Facebook.
'Why did the language department wake up so late?" questioned another user, Deepak Gusain.
'What difference does it make if our number plates are in Hindi?" asked Ars Deopa.
Experts highlight potential legal challenges, as altering or tampering with vehicle number plates is prohibited under Section 192(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and can result in fines up to Rs 5,000, legal proceedings, and even vehicle confiscation.
Sanat Kumar, deputy commissioner of the transport department, clarified that only the central government has the authority to amend the Act or change the format of vehicle registration plates. 'As per current rules, only English characters are permitted on number plates," he said.
Although some vehicle owners in states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh use Hindi-scripted plates, it remains a punishable offence under the MV Act.
First Published:
May 23, 2025, 15:47 IST
