PATNA, April 24 -- The Bihar police headquarters (PHQ) has directed the SSPs and SPs to release accident vehicles within 24 hours of seizure, under the Motor Vehicles Rules, to decongest police station premises overcrowded with confiscated vehicles, according to a circular issued by additional director general (Traffic) Sudhansu Kumar on Thursday. The order aims to eliminate the system of keeping vehicles at police stations for a long time and 'making money' on the pretext of release. The decision is expected to provide relief to the public and improve the functioning of the police system. However, if keeping the vehicle as evidence in a case is necessary, appropriate reasons must be recorded under the rules. The circular warned of action if concerned officials fail to comply. Authorities were instructed to complete preliminary investigation and legal procedures at the earliest. After this, the vehicle should be handed over to owner within 24 hours. The order also clarified that the recent directive does not apply to vehicles seized under the Arms Act, narcotics, explosives, illicit liquor, extortion, dacoity, robbery, rape and murder cases. "All SPs have been asked to inform the owner or driver about the crash vehicle being taken after the accident. The vehicle will be returned within 24 hours after being checked and entered on the portal. Local police or IOs of the awill have to make a panchnama before releasing the vehicle," he said....