Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab Government has announced a stringent crackdown on cases of underage driving, making it clear that any negligence related to road safety will not be tolerated. Finance and Transport Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that strict legal action will be taken not only against minors found driving but also against their parents, guardians, or the owners of the vehicles involved.
Cheema warned that if a minor is caught driving, the responsibility will rest directly with the parents, guardians, or vehicle owner. Under the new enforcement measures, authorities will impose severe penalties, including:
A heavy on-the-spot fine.
Immediate cancellation of the vehicle's registration, where applicable.
The minor being declared ineligible to obtain a driving licence until the age of 25.
The minister emphasized that underage driving is not merely a traffic violation but a serious threat to public safety.
According to the minister, under the new system, officials will immediately levy substantial fines if a minor is found driving. The vehicle's registration may also be cancelled without delay, and the offending minor will be barred from applying for a driving licence until turning 25.
"There can be no compromise on road safety. Underage driving is not just a violation of the law—it endangers the lives of others. That is why the government has decided to enforce the strictest possible action against such offences," Cheema said.
Punjab Government said the move is aimed at strengthening road safety, preventing accidents, and ensuring greater accountability among parents and vehicle owners who allow minors to drive.
