Maharashtra Transport Commissioner Orders Stricter Licence Monitoring
By | Arvind Jadhav
Jalna RTO Data Breach Exposed
A major irregularity in the Regional Transport Office (RTO) system has been exposed in Jalna district, bringing serious concerns over road safety and digital security to the forefront. Jalna police recently uncovered a racket in which driving licences and vehicle registration documents were allegedly generated without mandatory driving tests or OTP-based verification. The scam reportedly involved unauthorised access to the transport department’s online systems, allowing middlemen to bypass official procedures.
Police action in the case led to the arrest of a local RTO consultant, while electronic devices used for the illegal operations were seized for forensic examination. Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and that more individuals, including technical handlers and beneficiaries, may be booked as evidence emerges. The incident has raised questions about internal controls and cybersecurity safeguards within the transport department.
Threat to Road Safety and System Credibility
The Jalna RTO scam has sparked widespread concern, as licences issued without proper testing pose a direct threat to public safety. Transport experts have repeatedly warned that unqualified drivers significantly contribute to road accidents. The case has also dented public confidence in the integrity of government-issued documents, prompting demands for stricter supervision of licensing processes across Maharashtra.
Maharashtra RTOs Directed to Review Inspectors Over Licence Failures
In the wake of the Jalna incident and similar complaints from other regions, the Maharashtra Transport Commissioner has issued fresh statewide directives to tighten the driving licence issuance process. As per the new order, any RTO where fewer than 10 percent of applicants fail the driving test will face a mandatory review of the concerned vehicle inspectors’ performance. The move aims to curb leniency and prevent misuse of authority at testing centres.
The Transport Commissioner has emphasised strict compliance with testing protocols, including the physical presence of authorised inspectors, CCTV surveillance at driving test tracks, and secure digital verification of applicants. Officials said the objective is to ensure transparency, accountability, and uniform standards across all RTOs.
Audits and Action Expected After Jalna Case
Following the exposure of the Jalna RTO scam, transport authorities are expected to conduct audits of licence issuance data and access logs at multiple RTO offices. Senior officials have indicated that any officer or agent found involved in malpractice will face strict disciplinary and legal action. The department has reiterated its commitment to restoring public trust and strengthening safeguards against digital misuse.
