Fine for not wearing helmet in auto-rickshaw! Erroneous challan leaves driver in distress

A strange case has come to light from the Agarpada area of Bhadrak district, where an auto-rickshaw owner was shocked to discover a fine imposed for not wearing a helmet while travelling in his vehicle. The incident has exposed what appears to be a four-year-old mistake on the part of the police.

The challan, reportedly issued near Balipokhari in Bhadrak district, dates back to 2021. Auto owner Ramakrishna Nath was taken aback when he noticed an outstanding fine of Rs 1,000 while attempting to obtain a pollution certificate for his vehicle.

Vehicle Category Error

What has added to the confusion is the fact that the vehicle in question is a goods-carrying auto. However, the challan incorrectly categorised it as a ‘three-wheeler passenger auto’. As a result, the fine was issued under rules that do not apply to the vehicle.

"When I went to renew my pollution certificate, I was shocked to learn that I had been fined for not wearing a helmet while driving an auto-rickshaw. Because of this fine, I was unable to complete the pollution process. I had no idea that there was any such law for auto-rickshaw drivers. Now that the fine has been imposed and my work is stuck, I am completely confused about whether I should buy a helmet or pay the fine,” said auto driver Ramakrishna Nath.

Owner Left Worried

The discrepancy has left Ramakrishna Nath deeply concerned, as the fine does not align with either the nature of his vehicle or the alleged offence.

This incident has raised serious questions about the accuracy of traffic enforcement records. The case highlights the need for timely verification and correction of challans to prevent unnecessary harassment of vehicle owners.