Tampering with vehicle number plates rampant in Ranchi

Ranchi: The rising trend of number plate tampering has become a serious concern on Ranchi’s streets. From covering digits with black tape to altering numbers or even removing plates altogether, the practice—most common among youth—is largely aimed at dodging traffic cameras and avoiding e-challans.

On any given day, 10–20 such vehicles can be spotted across the city. Disturbingly, the malpractice is not confined to civilians; even some police personnel have been caught riding motorcycles with tampered plates, raising concerns about accountability and public trust.

What began as a trick to escape fines is now being exploited by criminals. Vehicles with altered plates are increasingly linked to thefts, robberies, and snatching incidents. Once involved in crime, such vehicles become nearly impossible to trace, allowing culprits to flee undetected.

Experts warn that the issue could snowball into a major law-and-order challenge if ignored. Token fines are proving ineffective—what’s required is strict on-ground enforcement, regular vehicle inspections, and swift punitive action.

The pressing question is whether Ranchi’s traffic police and district administration will act decisively. Without immediate intervention, the city risks becoming a haven for offenders hiding behind fake or altered plates.