Mangaluru: Video of traffic police checking auto goes viral, top city cop urges to follow rules

Mangaluru: Following a video that went viral on social media showing traffic police checking an autorickshaw allegedly ferrying patient for dialysis from Kerala to a hospital in Deralakatte, Commissioner of Police Sudheer Kumar Reddy C H, has issued a clarification explaining the circumstances behind the incident and the legal position.

The Commissioner stated that the autorickshaw driver himself admitted that the vehicle was registered as a private vehicle but was being used to carry passengers for hire. This, he clarified, constitutes a clear violation under provisions of the Motor Vehicles rules.

He further explained that the presence of patients inside a vehicle does not automatically permit a private vehicle to be used for commercial passenger transport. The law does not allow conversion of a private vehicle into a commercial one without obtaining proper permits.

Local auto drivers in Mangaluru operate under strict regulations, having obtained permits at significant cost and complying with area restrictions of District Magistration notification. Despite challenges, they continue to follow the rules, struggling for their livelihood.

“In this context, expecting enforcement agencies to ignore violations simply because the vehicle is from another state is neither fair nor practical,” explained the Commissioner.

Clarifying the role of the traffic personnel involved, the Commissioner stated that the Assistant Sub-Inspector carried out his duty by stopping the vehicle, informing the driver about the violation and applicable penalty. However, considering humanitarian grounds, the officer chose not to impose a fine, demonstrating discretion. He added that the officer was unaware of the presence of patients before stopping the vehicle.

The Commissioner also advised that individuals wishing to avoid inconvenience should ensure compliance with rules and regulations. He emphasised that compassionate consideration, if required, should be sought respectfully and not demanded as a right.

He urged the voice of all rule-abiding auto drivers of Mangaluru struggling to run in city areas before voicing in favour of illegal autos demanding concessions under compassionate grounds as if it's a matter of right.