Fake Disability Certificates Used for ST Bus Travel to Invite Criminal Action

Jalgaon |
The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC/ST) has launched a strict verification drive to curb the misuse of fake disability certificates by passengers availing free or concessional bus travel. Authorities have warned that criminal cases will now be registered directly against those found using forged or invalid disability identity cards.

As per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, genuine persons with disabilities are entitled to free or concessional travel on ST buses. However, recent inspections revealed that bogus disability certificate holders were increasingly misusing the facility, depriving genuine beneficiaries and causing financial losses to the corporation.

Mandatory Verification of UDID Cards

Following complaints and observations, the Department of Disability Welfare has issued clear instructions to MSRTC to carry out thorough verification of disability identity cards. Acting on these directions, the Transport General Manager of MSRTC has instructed all depots and officials to strictly verify the Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards during travel.

Under the new measures:

• The validity, photograph, personal details, and beneficiary identity will be cross-checked.

• The UDID number and date of birth will be verified instantly through a dedicated digital system.

• Only passengers with valid and authentic cards will be allowed free or concessional travel.

Immediate Seizure and Criminal Action

If any invalid, fake, or suspicious UDID card is found:

• The card will be seized immediately

• It will be deposited at the respective ST depot

• A criminal case (FIR) will be registered at the depot level under Section 91 of the RPwD Act, 2016

Officials confirmed that no leniency will be shown, and offenders will face legal consequences.

Special App Introduced for Transparency

To ensure transparency and efficiency, MSRTC has made it mandatory to use a special mobile application across all depots in the state. This app enables real-time verification of disability cards, making it difficult for fake cardholders to escape detection.

Additionally:

• A separate register will be maintained for all seized cards

• Monthly reports will be submitted to divisional offices for monitoring and accountability

Protecting Genuine Beneficiaries

ST officials clarified that the objective of this drive is not harassment, but to ensure that only genuine and eligible persons with disabilities receive benefits.

Authorities expressed confidence that this initiative will:

• Stop misuse of disability concessions

• Protect the rights of genuine beneficiaries

• Prevent financial losses to MSRTC

• Bring greater transparency into the system