Customs Raids in Kerala Expose Smuggling of Foreign Cars from Bhutan

Customs officials have uncovered a racket involving the smuggling of foreign cars from Bhutan to India, following raids at multiple locations in Kerala, including the premises of several film professionals.

Investigators revealed that luxury cars were being brought into the country in violation of import norms meant for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) returning to India and those governing import of new and used vehicles.

Under the rules, an NRI returning to India under the Transfer of Residence scheme can import a car only if:

• They are the first owner of the vehicle.
• The car has been in use abroad for at least two years.
• It carries no financial liability with any firm.
• The vehicle is not intended for resale in India.

For new vehicles, import is permitted only if the car has not been manufactured or assembled in India, nor sold, leased, or loaned before import.

For second-hand vehicles, the conditions are stricter:

• The car must have been registered or used abroad before import.
• It should be no older than three years from the date of manufacture.
• It must have right-hand steering, a kilometre speedometer, and headlamps adjusted for left-hand driving.

With valid documents, an NRI can apply to the Ministry of Commerce for a customs clearance permit. Additionally, NRIs may import their vehicles temporarily for six months using an ATA Carnet, which allows duty-free entry of vehicles and goods for temporary use.

(Source: IE)