Dharamshala: The bid for a coveted VIP number (HP 39 G 0001) in this region is set to close on January 28, with the auction having commenced on January 22. The deposit amount for this exclusive number reached around 150,000, but a significant portion of the public remained unaware of the ongoing auction.
Officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the government follows a schedule of opening auctions for fancy numbers every Monday, concluding on Sunday. However, they acknowledged the absence of a systematic approach for issuing notifications or informing the public about these auctions.
Enthusiasts of such distinctive numbers questioned the lack of publicity, suggesting that for the government to maximize income from these auctions, there should be extensive efforts to inform potential buyers. Deepak Kumar, a resident of Bagli near Dharamshala, expressed his disappointment at not being aware of the ongoing auction, discovering it only through a chance conversation with a friend at a cafe.
While the government aims to curb malpractices associated with fancy numbers, a notable gap exists in establishing a robust public information system for these auctions. Sunil Kumar, a resident of the Sheela area, emphasized the necessity of introducing effective communication systems in this digital age to enhance revenue from such auctions.
Reports indicate that several VIP numbers from Himachal Pradesh, particularly the HP 38 series from the border areas of Kangra district, are registered with top business leaders and celebrities in cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The current auction process highlights the need for a more inclusive and transparent communication strategies.
