Instant license suspension if caught violating traffic rules

Flouting of traffic rules has become a menace to the society and poses threats to many of the pedestrians and to the individual themselves. But if reports are to be believed, if one is caught breaking the traffic rules any time soon, the punishment is not going to be a “ challan” anymore. Instead it is going to result in on-the-spot cancellation of the driving license. The group of state transport ministers has approved inserting a new section in the Motor Vehicles Act to enforce this, besides a provision for compulsory refresher training for such offenders. The National Capital has reported about 3 lakh license cancellation in the past 6 months for similar offenses. The panel has also approved immediate withdrawal of advertisements, films and TV serials that show speeding and rash driving without “ adequate warning“ on the screen. The GoM has also ratified stricter penalty for dangerous driving and racing on public roads. For first time offenders, the fine would be Rs 5,000 or six months jail while for subsequent offence there would be two years jail or Rs 10,000 fine. Moreover, the panel has approved higher penalty for drivers who fail to take crash victims to hospitals, in cases where they face no mob fury. Jail term of up to six months or Rs 2,000 fine have been proposed for such drivers. Similarly, driving without insurance could attract Rs 2,000 fine and three months jail for first offence and Rs 4,000 fine on subsequent offence. Crash victims will be liable for compensation if they are hit by an uninsured vehicle. To ensure stricter compliance with the rules listed, the GoM has proposed Rs 5,000 and up to Rs 1 lakh fine respectively. Similar fines have been proposed for vehicle component dealers found selling non-approved safety items. It also recommended stringent penalties for noncompliance of automobile regulations by vehicle manufacturers and mandatory recall of vehicles within stipulated period.

OUR TAKE

The rule of instant suspension of the traffic license if the individual flouts the traffic rules is imperative if the safety of everyone is to be taken care of. Traffic rules are flouted in broad daylight in the National Capital. The problem is in the mindset of the general public and it needs to be changed. If not for the stricter rules, nothing can.