The Telangana High Court has directed traffic police not to compel motorists to pay pending traffic challans on the spot, clarifying that enforcement must follow due legal procedure.
While hearing petitions related to traffic enforcement practices, the court observed that police personnel cannot stop vehicles solely to recover pending fines. It also ruled that coercive actions such as detaining motorists, snatching vehicle keys, or pressuring citizens to make immediate payments are impermissible.
The High Court clarified that traffic challans issued for violations remain valid and enforceable. However, recovery of fines must be carried out only through legally prescribed methods under the Motor Vehicles Act, including issuing notices or initiating appropriate legal proceedings.
The court emphasized that motorists may voluntarily choose to pay fines, but payment cannot be forced on public roads. Any recovery process must respect citizens rights and follow statutory procedures.
The order comes amid growing complaints about aggressive challan collection practices, particularly in Hyderabad and surrounding areas.
The High Court’s direction aims to ensure lawful enforcement of traffic rules while preventing harassment of motorists.
