COURTKUTCHERY SPECIAL ON DRIVING RULES IN DELHI; VIOLATIONS COULD LEAD TO JAIL
Delhi Police Crack Down on Wrong-Side Driving: FIRs, Heavy Fines, and Strict Traffic Rules
No Mercy for Wrong-Side Driving: FIRs Registered Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Motorists Must Follow Traffic Rules to Avoid Challans and Criminal Cases
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: January 07, 2026:
Delhi’s roads are among the busiest in India, and traffic violations have long been a challenge for law enforcement. Recently, the Delhi Police announced a strict crackdown on wrong-side driving, a dangerous practice that causes accidents and traffic chaos. For the first time, police are registering First Information Reports (FIRs) against offenders, making Delhi the first Union Territory to criminalize this violation.
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This move highlights the growing seriousness with which authorities are treating traffic safety. Motorists must now be more careful than ever to avoid challans, fines, and even jail time.
Why the Crackdown?
- High Accident Risk: Wrong-side driving is one of the leading causes of head-on collisions.
- Traffic Chaos: It disrupts traffic flow and endangers pedestrians.
- Repeat Offenders: Despite fines of ₹5,000, many motorists continued the practice.
- Legal Backing: FIRs are now being registered under Section 281 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for rash or negligent driving.
Penalties for Wrong-Side Driving
- Fine: ₹5,000 for the first offence under the Motor Vehicles Act.
- FIRs: Criminal cases registered in serious instances.
- Insurance Violations: Cases also booked under Sections 146 and 196 of the Motor Vehicles Act for driving without valid insurance.
- Bailable Offence: Offenders are arrested but released on bail.
Key Traffic Rules Motorists Must Follow
To avoid challans and FIRs, motorists should strictly follow these rules:
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- No Wrong-Side Driving: Always take a proper U-turn or follow designated routes.
- Helmet and Seatbelt: Mandatory for two-wheeler riders and car drivers.
- Valid Documents: Carry driving license, registration certificate, insurance papers, and pollution certificate.
- No Drunk Driving: Breathalyzer checks are frequent; penalties include fines and imprisonment.
- Speed Limits: Follow posted speed limits; over speeding attracts heavy fines.
- No Mobile Use: Using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited.
- Lane Discipline: Stick to your lane; avoid zigzag driving.
- Parking Rules: Do not park in no-parking zones.
- Pedestrian Safety: Always stop at zebra crossings and give way to pedestrians.
- Pollution Norms: Ensure your vehicle meets emission standards.
Implications for Motorists
- Stricter Enforcement: Police are moving from fines to criminal cases.
- Public Safety Priority: The crackdown aims to reduce accidents and fatalities.
- Legal Consequences: Wrong-side driving can now affect your criminal record.
- Insurance Issues: Driving without valid insurance can lead to additional charges.
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Expert Opinions
- Traffic Police Officials: Say FIRs will be registered selectively, based on risk posed.
- Road Safety Experts: Welcome the move, noting that stricter enforcement is necessary to change driver behaviour.
- Motorists: Some express concern about harsh penalties but agree safety must come first.
Conclusion
Delhi Police’s decision to register FIRs against wrong side driving marks a turning point in traffic enforcement. Motorists must now strictly follow traffic rules to avoid challans, fines, and criminal cases. The message is clear: no mercy for reckless driving.
By following basic rules—no wrong-side driving, carrying valid documents, wearing helmets and seatbelts—drivers can ensure safety for themselves and others. This crackdown is not just about punishment; it is about creating a safer Delhi for all road users.
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Sources: ABP Live, Times of India, Hindustan Times
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