The Supreme Court of India recently addressed a very important issue regarding Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving licences. This landmark judgement clarifies that holders of LMV licences can operate transport vehicles weighing up to 7,500 kg. This decision has important implications for commercial drivers and the insurance sector.
About Light Motor Vehicle Licences
An LMV licence allows drivers to operate passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles. This includes cars, vans, small trucks, minibuses, and three-wheelers. The key requirement is that the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) must not exceed 7,500 kg.
Impact of the Supreme Court Ruling
The ruling allows LMV licence holders to drive commercial vehicles without needing a separate transport vehicle licence. This change is expected to enhance employment opportunities for many drivers who previously lacked the necessary qualifications to operate commercial vehicles.
Previous Legal Context
The issue gained attention following the 2017 case of Mukund Dewangan vs Oriental Insurance Company Limited. The Supreme Court had then ruled that LMV licence holders could drive transport vehicles under certain conditions. However, insurance companies contested this interpretation, leading to confusion and claim rejections.
Details of the Current Judgement
The five-judge Constitution Bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, reaffirmed that LMV drivers can operate vehicles for commercial use without extra authorisation. This judgement aims to protect the livelihoods of many drivers who rely on this legal interpretation to work.
Challenges with Insurance Claims
Insurance companies previously argued that claims for accidents involving LMV drivers of commercial vehicles should be rejected. They brought into light the differences in training and eligibility requirements between LMV and transport vehicle licences. However, the court sided with the drivers, ensuring their rights are protected.
Eligibility and Training Requirements
To obtain an LMV licence, one must be at least 18 years old. In contrast, a transport vehicle licence requires the individual to be 20 years old. LMV licences are valid for 20 years, while transport vehicle licences have a shorter validity period. The latter also requires more extensive training, including modules on safety and public relations.
Socio-Economic Implications
Chief Justice Chandrachud stressed the need for careful consideration of decisions impacting workers’ livelihoods. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been directed to evaluate the broader social impact of any changes in policy, including safety and insurance implications.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the socio-economic impact of the Supreme Court’s judgement on LMV driving licences for commercial drivers.
- Discuss the implications of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 on the categorisation of vehicles and driving licences.
- Critically discuss the differences between Light Motor Vehicle and transport vehicle licences in terms of eligibility and training.
- Analyse the role of insurance companies in the context of the Supreme Court’s ruling on LMV driving licences.
