In a landmark development for road safety enforcement, the Delhi Police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) for wrong-side driving, making the national capital the first Union Territory in India to initiate criminal proceedings for this traffic violation. The case has been filed under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), signalling a tougher stance against dangerous driving behaviour.
The FIR was registered on January 3 at the Delhi Cantonment
police station against a man from Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, who was
allegedly caught driving against the flow of traffic near the Hanuman Mandir
red light. Police officials said the act posed a serious risk to other road
users and warranted action beyond a routine traffic challan.
According to authorities, the accused was found without a valid driving licence or vehicle insurance at the time of the incident. However, the case was specifically booked under Section 281 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, which addresses rash or negligent driving on public roads that endangers human life. This provision allows the police to pursue criminal liability rather than limiting action to monetary penalties.
Officials describe the move as a strategic shift in traffic
law enforcement, aimed at deterring habitual and high-risk violations such as
wrong-side driving, overspeeding, and reckless manoeuvres. By invoking criminal
law, police hope to instil greater accountability among motorists and reduce
repeat offences.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over road safety in
India. Government data for 2023 shows more than 1.73 lakh fatalities and around
4.6 lakh injuries due to road accidents nationwide. Two-wheeler riders
accounted for a large share of these deaths, highlighting the persistent
dangers posed by unsafe driving practices.
With this step, Delhi Police has set a precedent that could influence traffic enforcement strategies across the country, reinforcing the message that reckless driving is not just a violation—but a serious crime with real consequences.
BY- Nirosha Gupta
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