Shillong, May 21, 2026 — The East Khasi Hills Police have cautioned all vehicle owners in the district against failing to update ownership records following the sale or purchase of a vehicle. Authorities announced that strict enforcement drives are currently underway, with violators facing penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act.
In a public advisory issued on May 20, the police emphasised that transferring vehicle ownership is a mandatory legal requirement. Under Section 50 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, both the seller and the buyer must complete the formal transfer of the Registration Certificate (RC) within the stipulated timeframe after any transaction.
Failure to do so leaves the original owner liable for any traffic violations, accidents, e-challans, insurance claims, or legal cases linked to the vehicle. Buyers operating vehicles with outdated ownership records may also encounter difficulties during police checks, insurance renewal, or future resale.
Why Compliance Matters
Police officials noted that many vehicle transactions in the region are completed informally without updating records at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This practice, while seemingly convenient, often leads to complications for both parties. The ongoing enforcement drive aims to address this widespread issue and ensure full compliance with the law.
Standard Procedure for Ownership Transfer
To avoid penalties, vehicle owners are advised to follow the proper channel:
- Seller’s Responsibilities: Provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if required, along with the original RC, valid insurance certificate, and a signed sale agreement.
- Buyer’s Responsibilities: Submit Form 29 and Form 30, along with proof of identity and address, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and other necessary documents at the concerned RTO.
- Timeline: The transfer should ideally be completed within 14 to 30 days of the transaction. Exact requirements may vary slightly and should be confirmed with the Meghalaya Transport Department.
- Online Option: Many services are available through the Parivahan portal (parivahan.gov.in) for easier processing.
Vehicle owners in East Khasi Hills and across Meghalaya are urged to act promptly and verify their vehicle documents. Those who have recently bought or sold vehicles are encouraged to visit their nearest RTO at the earliest to complete the formalities and avoid legal repercussions.
The police have assured that the drive will continue until compliance improves, signalling a firm stance on road transport regulations in the district.
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