Mita Parida Vs RTO (Orissa High Court)
In the case of Mita Parida Vs RTO, the Orissa High Court addressed a petition regarding the release of a vehicle seized for non-payment of motor vehicle (MV) tax and related offenses. The petitioner, claiming ownership of the truck in question, sought a directive for its release from the Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Dhenkanal. The petitioner expressed willingness to pay 50% of the fine along with the outstanding MV tax and sought permission to file a show cause reply under Section 13(2) of the Odisha Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1975, regarding the penalty imposed.
The Court considered the petitioner’s submissions and the Transport Department’s stance, which required full payment of dues and compliance with procedural requirements, including the submission of the driver’s original license. The High Court directed the petitioner to pay the total outstanding MV tax, 50% of the fine, and file a show cause reply within four weeks. Upon compliance, the RTO was instructed to release the vehicle. The petitioner was also required to submit an undertaking to cooperate with the authorities for further legal processes related to the challan. The case highlights procedural obligations in MV tax-related disputes and ensures relief upon compliance with statutory requirements.
