Jammu & Kashmir Transport Department Issues Strict Advisory to Parents: Ban on Minors Driving Vehicles

 

Srinagar/Jammu, 15 November 2024 – In a significant move to curb traffic violations and ensure road safety, the Transport Department of Jammu & Kashmir has issued a stringent advisory to parents and guardians against allowing their underage children to drive two-wheelers or four-wheelers. The advisory, issued by the Transport Commissioner, emphasizes that permitting minors to operate vehicles is not only a legal violation but also endangers the lives of both the juvenile drivers and other road users.

Key Highlights of the Advisory:

The advisory is based on Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which outlines the legal repercussions for parents or guardians of minors involved in driving offenses:

1. Legal Accountability: If a juvenile commits an offense under the Motor Vehicles Act, the guardian or owner of the vehicle can be held accountable and face prosecution. This includes a potential imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of ₹25,000.

2. Cancellation of Vehicle Registration: If a minor is caught driving, the vehicle's registration may be suspended for 12 months.

3. Delayed Driving License Eligibility: Juveniles found guilty of driving offenses may be ineligible to apply for a learner’s or driving license until they turn 25 years old.

4. Exemptions: These penalties do not apply if the minor held a valid learner's license under Section 8 or a driving license under Section 9 and was operating the vehicle as per the license conditions.

5. Punishments for Juveniles: In addition to penalties for guardians, minors themselves may face fines as outlined in the Motor Vehicles Act, with potential modifications under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000.

Appeal to the Public

The Transport Department urges parents and guardians to prevent their minor children from driving any type of vehicle to avoid severe legal consequences. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance road safety and reduce accidents involving underage drivers.

Transport Commissioner Rajinder Singh Tara, who signed the advisory, emphasized the importance of parental responsibility, noting that the cooperation of the general public is crucial to ensuring safer roads across Jammu and Kashmir.

This advisory comes in the wake of growing concerns about the rise in traffic violations involving minors, which have led to several accidents in recent years. The authorities hope that stricter enforcement of the Motor Vehicles Act will act as a deterrent against such practices.

For further details and inquiries, citizens are encouraged to contact the office of the Transport Commissioner.

Issued in the public interest

 by the Transport Department, J&K