Unclaimed seized vehicles in Diglipur may face auction soon

Three vehicles seized in connection with road accident cases in Diglipur may soon be auctioned or disposed of after their owners failed to come forward to claim them, despite repeated reminders. Police Station Diglipur has issued a public notice urging registered owners and concerned parties to take immediate steps for release of their vehicles through the Hon’ble Court at Mayabunder within 15 days.

The vehicles in question, a truck bearing registration number AN 4608, a Tata Sumo with registration number AN01 D-8474, and an Omni with registration number AN01 E-3265, were earlier seized during investigations into separate road accident cases. Following completion of court proceedings, the vehicles are no longer required for legal purposes and remain parked at the police station premises.

Authorities noted that efforts have been made several times to inform and approach the registered owners or the individuals from whom the vehicles were seized. However, no action has been taken by them to retrieve their property. Police say the prolonged stay of unclaimed vehicles in station premises not only consumes space but also poses administrative challenges in terms of upkeep and disposal.

The registered owners identified include Bapi Saha, a government contractor of Diglipur, who owns the truck; B. Jaganad Rao of Calicut, Sri Vijaya Puram, listed as owner of the Tata Sumo; and A. Palanivelu of Rangat, North & Middle Andaman, owner of the Omni. Each has been directed to appear before the Hon’ble Court at Mayabunder within the stipulated time to seek release of their vehicles.

The notice makes it clear that failure to comply within 15 days of publication will result in the vehicles being auctioned or otherwise disposed of in accordance with procedure. Once auctioned, further claims from owners will not be entertained, closing the possibility of reclaiming the vehicles.

While some owners avoid reclaiming vehicles due to damage or low value, officials stress that delays burden police stations and create clutter in compounds meant for operational purposes.

The auction route ensures that the vehicles, once legally cleared, can either be recycled, scrapped, or resold in compliance with regulations. The revenue generated from such auctions is directed into government accounts, ensuring accountability in disposal.

Unclaimed vehicles at police stations are not an uncommon sight across the islands, especially in accident or excise cases. Often, owners find it financially unviable to pursue release, particularly if the vehicles are badly damaged. In some cases, prolonged legal procedures also discourage owners from maintaining follow-up.

For Diglipur police, the current notice is part of routine housekeeping to clear station premises and complete due process. Residents and stakeholders have been advised that queries related to the matter can be directed to Police Station Diglipur on 03192-272223.

The situation serves as a reminder for vehicle owners involved in accident-related cases to stay updated on court proceedings and ensure timely retrieval of property once cases are disposed of. Officials note that ignoring such opportunities leads to permanent loss of ownership rights and leaves vehicles to be auctioned to new buyers or scrapped.

With the countdown now on, the registered owners of the truck, Tata Sumo, and Omni have until early October to act. Beyond that deadline, the vehicles will formally move into the auction process, ending any claims by original owners.