VIP number plate auction turns controversial as bidders default

PESHAWAR:

A recent high-profile auction of premium VIP and special vehicle number plates in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has spiraled into controversy after several winning bidders failed to make payments, forcing the Excise Department to forfeit their security deposits.

The auction, held on February 14 in Peshawar, featured sought-after choice plates bearing tribal and regional names. It initially generated excitement with record-breaking bids totaling millions of rupees. The highest bid came for 'Dawar 1' at Rs175 million (17.50 crore), followed by 'Waziristan 1' at Rs40.6 million (4.06 crore), and 'Bajaur 1' at Rs33.5 million (3.35 crore). The event reportedly raised over Rs470 million across 30 plates, showcasing strong demand for personalized registrations symbolizing prestige and status.

Under the rules, successful bidders were required to submit full payment via crossed cheque within the stipulated period. Each participant had deposited Rs100,000 as security to participate. However, authorities confirmed that the winners for 'Dawar 1,' 'Waziristan 1', and 'Bajaur 1' defaulted on their obligations. As a result, the Excise Department seized their security deposits and initiated recovery proceedings.

Officials expressed frustration, noting that some bidders appeared to have placed extravagant bids primarily for social media fame and publicity, only to vanish when payment was due.

This has embarrassed the department, which promoted the auction as a revenue-generating initiative for the provincial exchequer.