TV
A proposal to grant Odisha Police expanded powers for vehicle checking and on-the-spot fine collection has triggered a major backlash from private bus operators across the state.
In a letter dated May 30, the State Transport Commissioner recommended that police officers be formally empowered under the Motor Vehicles Act to conduct vehicle checks and impose fines, citing enforcement efficiency.
The proposal was submitted to the Odisha Transport Department and aims to enhance compliance with road safety and traffic regulations. However, the move has now stirred significant opposition, particularly from the State Private Bus Owners' Association.
Private Bus Owners Raise Alarm Over Potential Misuse
In a strongly worded petition to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the association expressed serious concerns over the implications of such a move. It argued that giving additional powers to the police could lead to widespread corruption and harassment of transport operators.
The association claimed that similar powers had been granted in the past, which allegedly led to rampant misuse.
“Earlier, too, when such authority was given to police personnel, it resulted in increased corruption. Unnecessary e-challans were issued, and bus operators were harassed under vague pretexts,” the letter stated.
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Call for Reconsideration of the Proposal
Citing previous experiences and the potential for abuse, the association urged the state government to reconsider the proposal. The bus owners have demanded a more balanced mechanism involving transport officials and third-party oversight to ensure that enforcement does not turn into exploitation.
The proposal remains under consideration by the Transport Department, with no official word yet from the Chief Minister’s Office. Meanwhile, the controversy is expected to intensify as other transport unions and civil society groups weigh in on the issue.
