New Delhi, November 6, 2024: The Supreme Court on Wednesday reaffirmed its 2017 decision, ruling that holders of light motor vehicle (LMV) driving licenses are permitted to operate transport vehicles with a gross weight of up to 7,500 kg.
A five-judge bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, upheld the earlier verdict, which had allowed LMV license holders to drive heavier vehicles such as buses, trucks, and road rollers, provided the vehicles do not exceed the weight limit.
While acknowledging the ongoing concern over road accidents in the country, the bench noted that insurance companies’ petitions lacked empirical evidence linking LMV license holders driving transport vehicles to an increased rate of accidents.
The petitioners, including major insurance companies, had argued that the 2017 decision posed risks, as it permitted individuals with LMV licenses to operate larger transport vehicles, which could potentially result in more accidents. However, the Court found no substantial data to support these claims, upholding the right of LMV license holders to operate vehicles up to the specified weight limit.
