The Mahindra Thar is one of the market's best-selling SUVs, and it's known for its massive road presence and strong personality. Owners modify their SUVs to improve their capabilities or appearance by installing after-market metal bumpers, larger tyres, modified lights, and other accessories.
These modifications are not legal and can be dangerous in the event of a crash. A Jammu and Kashmir court recently sentenced a Thar owner to six months in jail for illegally modifying it. All the modifications violated Section 52 of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988.
These modifications included an aftermarket hard top, larger wheels, retrofitted LED lights, and a high car sired. Besides they made many other changes to the SUV as cosmetic or functional upgrades. The court determined that the vehicle's structure had been completely modified/altered from its original position as specified in the RC.
Because illegal vehicle modifications do not involve any moral turpitude. The court also granted the benefit of probation under the Probation of Offenders Act. As a result, the owner has been asked to execute a Rs 2 lakh bond for good behaviour over a two-year period. Failure to obey the bond will result in the accused receiving the proposed sentence.
The court ordered RTO Kashmir in Srinagar to remove all illegal modifications and the siren and to return the vehicle to its original position. For owners looking to upgrade their Thar, there is currently a long list of modifications available on the market. Including premium LED lights, customised hard tops, off-road bumpers, and lift kits.
These modifications not only affect the SUV's reliability but can also have a serious impact on its operation. It is illegal under the law to make any changes to the structure and integrity of a vehicle.
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