The Regional Transport Office (RTO) is set to introduce new rules for minor driving, including significant penalties and potential jail time for guardians. These changes come in response to a tragic incident in Pune where a minor, driving a luxury car, caused the death of two IT engineers. Here are the details of the new regulations and their implications.
Background: The Pune Accident
On the night of May 19, 2024, a minor driving a Porsche car in Pune’s Kalyani Nagar area struck and killed two IT engineers. The minor, aged 17 years and 8 months, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol. This tragic accident has led to the arrest of the minor’s father, and the case is currently under investigation. The incident has prompted the government to enforce stricter regulations on minor driving starting June 1, 2024.
New RTO Rules: Penalties for Guardians
From June 1, 2024, the RTO will implement new rules that increase the penalties for allowing minors to drive. If a minor is caught driving, the guardian or parent could face a challan of up to Rs 25,000. This measure aims to deter parents and guardians from allowing their underage children to drive, thereby preventing such accidents.
Jail Time for Guardians
In addition to hefty fines, the new rules also stipulate that guardians could face up to three years in jail if their minor child is involved in an accident while driving. This aspect of the law is designed to hold guardians accountable and emphasize the seriousness of underage driving.
The Legal Framework
The legal basis for these new rules is grounded in existing Indian laws, including the Motor Vehicle Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. The Pune accident led to an FIR being registered under Section 304 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder, and other sections of the Motor Vehicle Act. Additionally, the minor’s father has been charged under sections 75 and 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act, which relate to the care and protection of children.
Implications of the New Rules
The new RTO rules aim to significantly reduce the instances of underage driving by imposing strict penalties on guardians. By holding parents and guardians accountable, the government hopes to create a safer environment on the roads and prevent future tragedies similar to the Pune incident. The enforcement of these rules will require active cooperation from law enforcement agencies and the public.
