No Challan, No Fine! Bihar Cops Make Offenders Buy Helmets & Insurance When Caught!

What happens when a traffic cop catches someone riding a two-wheeler without a helmet? The offender is penalised for Rs.1000, right? Well, not always. After Kerala police distributed ladoos to traffic violators and Manipur police gave them toffees, Bihar police have come up with a creative initiative of their own.

Traffic officials in Motihari (Bihar) led by SHO Mukesh Chandra Kunwar of Chhatauni police station, let off offenders if they correct their mistake on the spot and purchase a helmet.

He believes that the steep fines under the Motor Vehicles Act fail to build people’s trust and makes them think of policemen as extortionists instead. Financial Express quoted him saying,

“I drew inspiration from the town’s historical legacy and came up with the plan which could help us achieve the objective of the amended MV Act in a humane yet effective way. Riders are not being fined as that makes them feel like they are offenders. Instead, they are made to purchase good quality helmets and get their insurance renewed.”

For this initiative to work, the SHO has asked helmet sellers and insurance agents to set up stalls at police checkpoints. In addition, he has put in a request with the District Transport Office to issue learner’s licences then and there.

But if a person’s violation is such that it is dangerous to other road users, the police doesn’t go easy on them.

“If a person is found driving rash or under the influence of alcohol, then we are left with no option but to take action according to the law.”

What a refreshing way to educate helmetless riders and make sure they understand its importance, don’t you think?

Cover Image Source – left, right