A local court in Chandigarh has stripped a man of his driving license after he accrued a staggering 222 traffic violations. Deepak Vasdev, the driver, faced severe penalties including a ₹43,400 fine and a mandatory 15 days of community service, underscoring the serious consequences of repeated traffic offences.
In a detailed hearing, Vasdev was found guilty of multiple infractions, notably 168 incidents of speeding and 44 instances of running red lights, along with other violations like ignoring road markings, illegal parking, and the use of black film on car windows. His Toyota Innova’s registration was previously suspended by the Registering and Licensing Authority due to these persistent violations.
The court, highlighting the gravity of Vasdev’s actions, stated, “No emergent situation can justify committing such a large number of violations. Over-speeding and jumping red lights are serious offences that pose a significant threat to both the violator and other road users.”
Presiding over the case, the court observed that habitual offenders like Vasdev show a blatant disregard for traffic laws and, consequently, lack the competence required for driving. “A person who consistently violates traffic laws demonstrates an inability to comprehend road safety,” remarked the presiding judge.
In addition to the hefty fine, Vasdev is required to undergo 15 days of community service with the Chandigarh Traffic Police, not exceeding two hours per day. This decision underscores the court’s commitment to corrective measures beyond mere financial penalties, utilizing community service to emphasize the importance of civic responsibilities.
Furthermore, the court ordered that Vasdev must pass a fresh driving test in compliance with Section 20 (4A) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, before he can reapply for a new licence. Until such a test is passed, he remains disqualified from driving.
The court also decreed that Vasdev’s vehicle be impounded and stored at Traffic Lines, Sector 29, Chandigarh, reflecting the severity of the penalties for such extensive violations. The vehicle cannot be returned to Vasdev following the revocation of his licence, though it can be released to another individual with a valid driving licence upon application to the court.
