Chennai: Kerala transport authorities have imposed fines totaling up to Rs. 70 lakh on a fleet of omni buses from Tamil Nadu that entered the state during the ongoing Sabarimala pilgrimage season. The action was taken after officials discovered the buses were operating in violation of their permit conditions, leading to the seizure of 30 vehicles.

The Core Violation: Contract Carriage vs. Stage Carriage

The dispute centers on a fundamental legal distinction between types of bus permits. According to transport regulations, Stage Carriage permits are for buses that operate on fixed routes, stop at designated stops to pick up and drop individual passengers, and charge a fare per seat. This is the category used by government and private buses that serve the general public.

In contrast, Omn

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