Invoke licence revocation power for drunken driving: Kerala HC to MVD

Deccan HeraldIndependentCenterNov 5

The Kerala High Court has directed the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) to utilize its statutory authority to revoke licenses for individuals convicted of drunken driving. The judiciary noted that the current reluctance by administrative authorities to exercise this power undermines the intended deterrent effect of the legal provisions against drunk driving. This directive aims to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure stricter compliance with traffic safety laws in the state.

Bias read (Center): The report neutrally conveys a judicial directive regarding regulatory enforcement without employing loaded language or taking a partisan stance on the underlying policy debate.

Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterNov 5

The Kerala High Court has directed the Motor Vehicles Department to actively invoke its authority to revoke licenses for drivers caught operating vehicles while intoxicated. Justice Kauser Edappagath criticized previous administrative reluctance, stating that failing to enforce Section 19 of the Motor Vehicles Act undermines legislative intent and reduces the deterrent effect against dangerous behavior. The court emphasized that drunk driving continues to cause fatalities and devastation across the state, necessitating serious enforcement by authorities. This directive was issued during a bail hearing for a man whose alcohol-impaired driving resulted in a fatal collision with a two-wheeler. The court ordered the immediate transfer of the accused’s license to the Licensing Authority to begin formal proceedings for disqualification.

Bias read (Center): The report neutrally presents the court's findings and orders regarding regulatory enforcement without adding subjective commentary or partisan framing.