New Delhi: In a decisive shift aimed at improving road safety, Delhi Traffic Police have begun treating wrong-side driving as a potentially criminal offence, with First Information Reports (FIRs) being filed in serious cases where public safety is at risk. The move marks a significant change in how one of Delhi’s most common and dangerous traffic violations is handled.
Until recently, wrong-side driving was largely punished through challans and fines. However, despite repeated enforcement drives, the violation continued unabated, often leading to fatal accidents and severe injuries. Authorities now believe stricter legal action is necessary to change driver behaviour.
The Growing Danger of Wrong-Side Driving in Delhi
Wrong-side driving has become a persistent menace on Delhi roads, especially during peak hours. Commuters often take shortcuts to avoid U-turns or traffic congestion, ignoring the serious risks involved. Traffic data shows that lakhs of such violations are recorded every year, making it one of the leading contributors to road accidents in the capital.
Two-wheelers account for the majority of wrong-side driving cases, followed by cars and commercial vehicles. Head-on collisions, pedestrian injuries and traffic pile-ups are common outcomes of such reckless behaviour.
Why Delhi Police Are Registering FIRs
According to senior traffic officials, FIRs are not being registered for every minor mistake. Criminal cases are initiated only when wrong-side driving is found to be:
- Life-threatening or extremely dangerous
- Repeated or habitual in nature
- Likely to cause or already causing serious accidents
The aim is to act firmly against deliberate and reckless violations while avoiding harassment of genuine motorists who may err due to unclear signage or road design issues.
Legal Provisions Being Used
Delhi Police are invoking provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), particularly those related to rash and negligent driving. These are applied along with relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act, depending on the seriousness of the offence.
Once an FIR is registered, the matter goes beyond traffic enforcement and enters the criminal justice system, involving court proceedings and legal scrutiny.
What Punishment Can Drivers Face?
The consequences of wrong-side driving now depend on the severity of the case:
- Minor cases may still attract challans and fines
- Serious cases can lead to FIR registration
- Possible punishment includes fines, court trials and even jail time
In certain situations, vehicles may also be seized as part of the legal process. Most FIRs registered so far are bailable, but the long-term impact of having a criminal case can be severe.
Ground-Level Enforcement Across Delhi
Since the start of the new enforcement approach, FIRs have been registered in several areas of Delhi, including high-traffic zones and accident-prone stretches. The police have made it clear that this is not a one-time drive but part of a sustained effort to improve road discipline.
Authorities say visible enforcement, combined with legal consequences, is already acting as a deterrent for many drivers.
Public Response and Road Safety Debate
The decision has triggered mixed reactions. Road safety activists and many citizens have welcomed the move, calling it long overdue. Others have urged authorities to also focus on better road planning, clearer signage and public awareness campaigns.
Delhi Police have stated that enforcement will go hand-in-hand with awareness efforts to ensure drivers understand the risks and legal consequences of wrong-side driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is considered wrong-side driving?
Wrong-side driving means driving a vehicle against the designated direction of traffic on a road or lane, putting oncoming vehicles and pedestrians at risk.
2. Is wrong-side driving now always a criminal offence?
No. FIRs are registered only in serious or life-threatening cases. Minor violations may still be dealt with through challans.
3. Can I go to jail for wrong-side driving in Delhi?
In severe cases involving rash or negligent driving, the law allows for imprisonment along with fines, depending on court orders.
4. Which law is used to file FIRs?
Police primarily use provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to negligent driving, along with sections of the Motor Vehicles Act.
5. Will my vehicle be seized?
Vehicle seizure is possible in serious cases, especially if the offence poses a grave danger to public safety.
6. Are FIR cases bailable?
Most FIRs registered so far are bailable, but this depends on the sections applied and the circumstances of the case.
7. Does this rule apply to two-wheelers as well?
Yes. Two-wheelers are among the most common offenders and are equally liable under the law.
8. Can poor road signage be a valid excuse?
Police may consider unclear signage or road design before taking strict legal action, but deliberate violations are not excused.
9. Is this enforcement limited to certain areas?
No. The policy applies across Delhi, especially in accident-prone and high-traffic zones.
10. Will this reduce accidents in Delhi?
Authorities believe stricter enforcement and the fear of criminal action will act as a strong deterrent and help improve road safety.
Conclusion
Delhi’s decision to treat wrong-side driving as a potential criminal offence marks a major step towards safer roads. By moving beyond fines and introducing FIRs in serious cases, authorities are sending a clear message that traffic rules are not optional. Whether this leads to long-term behavioural change will depend on consistent enforcement, public cooperation and continued awareness efforts. For now, one thing is clear — taking shortcuts on Delhi roads can come at a heavy legal cost.
Report by Toofan Express