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An investigation was ordered by the Indian government into Volkswagen AG after it said that "defeat device" software was used in its diesel models to circumvent emissions tests in the US.

Last Friday, the U.S. regulators said that the "defeat device" software was installed by the German automaker to lower emissions during testing in its models like Jetta, Golf and Beetle. The emissions exceeded the permitted limits under normal conditions.

Thus, agency Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), state-run testing agency, was instructed by the government to assess if the Volkswagen cars sold at domestic level violated any pollution laws similarly. However, pollution laws in India are less stringent are compared to the US.

The Ministry of Heavy Industry additional secretary Ambuj Sharma told Reuters that, "We have written to the ARAI to find out whether Volkswagen is selling the same models in India that have been found violating U.S. rules.”

"ARAI has been asked to submit its report within a week," Sharma added.

The official said that the government has not asked for any clarification from the German automaker and will wait for the report prior taking any further action.

Ministry another senior official said, "We want to know if what happened in the U.S. could happen in India or not.”

Euro IV auto pollution standards are applicable for vehicles sold in 50 cities under Indian regulation. Euro III standards are applicable in rest of the country.

Sharma said that in case VW is found to have violated Indian standards, the car maker may have to recall vehicles besides paying penalty or even have to face criminal proceedings.

-Sumana