Bhatkal Court Fines Vehicle Owner ₹25,000 for Allowing Minor to Ride Two Wheeler
Police continue strict action against underage driving as part of an ongoing road safety enforcement campaign.
A court in Bhatkal has imposed a fine of ₹25,000 on a vehicle owner for allowing a minor to ride a two wheeler, reinforcing the authorities’ firm stance against underage driving.
The case came to light after personnel from the Murdeshwar Police Station stopped a two wheeler being ridden by a minor within their jurisdiction. During verification, officers confirmed that the rider was below the legal age required to operate a motor vehicle.
Following the incident, Police Sub Inspector Hanumant Biradar initiated an investigation. The inquiry led police to the vehicle owner, Seema Akhtar Shaikh Mohiuddin Shirur, a resident of National Colony.
Based on the findings, Murdeshwar Police filed a chargesheet under Section 5 read with Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, which holds vehicle owners and guardians responsible when minors are found driving.
After hearing the case on June 2, the court found the owner liable for permitting the violation and ordered a penalty of ₹25,000.
Police officials said this is the third such case registered recently by the Murdeshwar Police, indicating a sustained effort by law enforcement agencies in Uttara Kannada district to tackle underage driving and ensure greater accountability among vehicle owners.
Authorities have once again urged parents and guardians not to allow minors to operate motor vehicles. Police warned that such violations can lead to substantial fines, legal consequences, and possible action against the vehicle registration. Officials also stressed that underage driving poses a serious risk to both the rider and other road users.