Break the rules, lose the wheel: Govt’s tough new traffic warning

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The central government has adopted a strict stance to curb drivers who repeatedly show recklessness on the road. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has amended the Motor Vehicles Rules and added a new provision. Under this provision, if a driver violates traffic rules five or more times within a year, their driving license can be suspended or revoked for three months.

Beware! Breaking traffic rules five times in a year could result in your driver's license being revoked. The central government has introduced new rules. : According to the notification issued by the ministry on Wednesday, this new rule will be effective from January 1, 2026. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) or the District Transport Officer will have the authority to suspend or cancel the license. However, before canceling the license, it will be mandatory for the concerned officer to hear the side of the license holder. Also, the violations of the previous year will not be included in the calculation of the new year, which means that the violations will be counted afresh every year.

Until now, license cancellation was only permitted in 24 serious cases, such as vehicle theft, kidnapping, speeding, or overloading. But under the new rule, violations such as not wearing a helmet, not wearing a seat belt, and jumping a red light can also lead to license suspension or cancellation if committed five times in a year.

The notification also clarifies the challan process. Uniformed police officers or authorized officers will be able to issue challans. Furthermore, auto-generated e-challans will be sent through CCTV cameras. Drivers must pay the challan within 45 days or challenge it in court. If no action is taken within the stipulated period, the driver will be deemed to have admitted the violation.

This new law has sparked debate among experts. Some believe it will improve road safety, while others call it a repressive measure. Former Deputy Transport Commissioner Anil Chhikara called it a step in the right direction, but added that since CCTV-based challans are often controversial, a clear and robust standard procedure should be established.