Pramesh S Jain
Increase in minors driving during summer vacation, letter from DGP’s office to state police officers for action
The Karnataka Police have directed all units across the state to launch a special enforcement drive to curb the rising incidents of underage driving during the summer vacation period.
In an official communication issued from the office of the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DGP & IGP),Karnataka,the department expressed serious concern over the increasing number of minors riding vehicles across cities,highways,and even deserted layouts.
The circular,issued by Additional Director General of Police and Commissioner for Traffic and Road Safety K. Parashuram,was addressed to Police Commissioners of major cities including Hubballi-Dharwad,Kalaburagi, Belagavi,Mangaluru,Mysuru,and Bengaluru,as well as all Superintendents of Police across the state.
The directive follows a complaint submitted by Karnataka State Police Complaints Authority member Mohan Kumar Danappa,highlighting frequent instances of minors engaging in dangerous driving practices.
According to the order,despite provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita that make driving by persons below 18 years a punishable offence,violations continue to be widespread.
Authorities noted that with schools and colleges closed for summer, minors are increasingly found riding two-wheelers,performing stunts such as wheeling,triple riding,and reckless driving,often accompanied by friends and sometimes with parental consent.
Police also pointed out that many minors lack awareness about traffic rules and the potential risks their actions pose to themselves and the public.
In several cases,parents knowingly allow their children to use vehicles,thereby exposing themselves to legal consequences,including heavy fines and possible imprisonment.
The department has instructed all police units to Conduct special and sustained enforcement drives Initiate awareness campaigns through social media,FM radio, television,and print media Educate parents and minors about traffic laws and safety risks.
The order emphasized that courts have been imposing stringent penalties in such cases,yet violations persist due to negligence and lack of accountability.
Police have been urged to take strict legal action against offenders and ensure effective implementation of awareness initiatives to prevent accidents and enhance road safety across the state.
