Indian pacer Akash Deep has found himself at the centre of an unexpected off-field controversy after taking delivery of a brand-new Toyota Fortuner without
completing the mandatory registration process or fitting a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP).
The Uttar Pradesh Transport Department has issued a show-cause notice to the Lucknow-based dealer responsible for handing over the vehicle in violation of regulations.
Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh, when asked about the matter by reporters, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations but also expressed pride in the state's sporting talent. "If there is any such issue, it will be examined. Akash Deep ji is the pride of Uttar Pradesh," the minister said, adding that the department would investigate if required.
The incident unfolded after Akash Deep purchased the SUV from Sunny Motors in Chinhat, Lucknow, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan celebrations. Photos of the cricketer posing with his new car alongside his sisters quickly went viral on social media. However, the images also drew attention from transport officials, who discovered that the car had neither been registered nor fitted with the legally required HSRP.
Following this, the department instructed Akash Deep not to use the vehicle on public roads until all formalities are completed. Officials have warned that if the car is spotted in use before registration, it will be seized and legal proceedings could be initiated.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the SUV's sale invoice was issued on August 7, 2025, and the insurance completed the following day. However, the dealer failed to pay the road tax, which meant the registration could not be processed. Despite this, the car was delivered to the player and was later seen parked at a public location, further confirming the violation.
The controversy has sparked debate over compliance among automobile dealers and whether such lapses are common. While Akash Deep himself has not issued a statement, the Transport Department's swift intervention suggests the matter will not be ignored. The final outcome will depend on the dealer's response to the notice and whether the necessary paperwork is completed without further delay.
