The Chandigarh Administration has introduced a new provision that allows citizens to contest traffic challans issued through CCTV cameras. This change follows the implementation of the Central Motor Vehicles (Third Amendment Rules)-2026 in the city.
New Rules for Challan Contestation
Under the amended rules, a traffic violator can either accept the challan and pay the fine or contest it on the official portal within 45 days of issuance. Documentary evidence must be submitted to support the contestation. If no action is taken within this period, the challan is deemed accepted.
Once the 45-day window expires, the violator must pay the fine within 30 days, either physically or electronically. If the challan is contested and the authority fails to resolve it within 30 days, or if it is quashed after reviewing the evidence, the challan ceases to have effect.
Rejection and Appeal Process
If the authority rejects the submission with written reasons, the violator must either pay the fine within 30 days of receiving the order or file an application in court after depositing 50% of the fine amount. Failure to pay or contest within 30 days results in the challan being deemed accepted, with payment due within the next 15 days. Non-compliance may lead to the suspension of processing for the offender's driving license or vehicle registration.
Delivery Timelines
The new rules also specify strict timelines for challan delivery: physical delivery must occur within 15 days, and electronic delivery within three days.
Concerns Raised
Social activist RK Garg expressed concerns that the new system may inconvenience those willing to pay fines promptly. He noted that challans for non-compoundable violations would now take at least 45 days to reach court, potentially leading to an accumulation of unpaid challans. Previously, such challans reached court within a week, and residents could clear them online. Garg also questioned how the 50% fine deposit would be refunded if the court cancels the challan, suggesting the new system might create more problems than benefits.
Virtual Courts Success
Notably, the virtual courts established for traffic challan disposal at the District Court have been highly successful, with around 47% of challans cleared online in Chandigarh—the highest rate in the country.
