In a move aimed at reinforcing the rule of law, the police commissionerate in Hubballi-Dharwad twin cities has taken action against its own personnel for traffic violations. Over the past two days, three police staff were penalized for riding without helmets and triple riding, with the violations caught on camera by the Traffic Management Centre (TMC). The commissionerate posted photographs and penalty receipts on its social media handles, drawing widespread praise from netizens.
Police Commissionerate Takes Action
CR Raveesha, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime & Traffic), told TOI that the initiative has been in place since January 2025. "Police personnel are also citizens and must follow the same traffic rules as everyone else. If police violate rules, it sends the wrong message to the public. As a law-enforcing agency, we must act as role models," he said. Raveesha added that action was being taken under a government order issued on October 29, 2007.
Since January 2026, around 50 cases involving police personnel have been booked. "We are now posting these cases on social media to build public trust and reinforce the message that no one is above the law on the roads. Apart from fines, erring personnel are also being warned to strictly follow traffic rules. This is also aimed at ensuring their own safety," he explained.
Detection and Response
On how violations are detected, the DCP said TMC staff in Hubballi and Dharwad monitor CCTV footage and social media posts. "If any policeman is found violating traffic rules, action is taken immediately without sparing anyone," he said.
Sudhir Mudhol, a Dharwad-based activist, said the move would strengthen public confidence in the police. "Police must follow the rules they enforce. Otherwise, they risk losing credibility among citizens," he said.
Public Reaction
Several social media users, including Manju Salagatti, Martin Punith, Narayan Meti, Sanjana C, Nagaraj B Jaligidad, and Sharanu Salimath, praised the action online. Another user, Mahesh SP, suggested that the police set up a WhatsApp number for citizens to report violations. Police commissioner N Shashi Kumar was unavailable for comment.
