Karnataka Grapples with Rising Underage Driving Fatalities: 61 Teen Deaths in 2025
Mysuru: Karnataka has witnessed a concerning trend of road accident deaths involving teenagers below the legal driving age of 18 years, with 61 fatalities recorded in 2025. According to data presented by Home Minister G Parameshwara in the legislative council in March, the fatalities stood at 70 in 2024 and 58 in 2023. The information was shared in response to a query by MLC Madhu G Madegowda, highlighting the state's ongoing struggle with underage driving incidents.
Sharp Increase in Legal Action Against Parents and Vehicle Owners
The Karnataka government has intensified legal action against those encouraging underage driving. A total of 369 cases were registered against parents and vehicle owners in 2023, which rose sharply to 677 cases in 2024 and further escalated to 943 cases in 2025. To curb this menace, cases are being filed against minors, while legal action is also initiated against their parents. Recommendations are being sent to the respective Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to suspend registration certificates (RCs) of vehicles involved in underage driving for up to 12 months, based on police recommendations.
Comprehensive Enforcement and Awareness Campaigns
In addition to legal measures, police are conducting periodic special drives to check violations, and awareness campaigns are being held during Road Safety Month every January, as stated by Home Minister G Parameshwara. A transport department official emphasized that the minimum age for obtaining a learner's licence and a driving licence for light motor vehicles (LMVs) is 18 years. DCP (traffic) KS Sundar Raj confirmed that Mysuru city police have been conducting regular checks to curb underage driving and plan to intensify these drives.
Growing Concerns and Community Outreach
An officer noted that the crackdown follows growing concern over road accidents, dangerous stunts, and traffic violations involving minors. Awareness programmes are also being conducted in schools and neighbourhoods to educate families about the risks and legal consequences of underage driving. Police have appealed to citizens to act responsibly and not allow teenagers to drive without a valid licence, underscoring the collective effort needed to address this public safety issue.
Statistical Overview of Underage Driving Cases and Fatalities
- Underage Driving Cases: 2023: 369 cases against minors, 327 against parents/vehicle owners; 2024: 677 cases against minors, 585 against parents/vehicle owners; 2025: 93 cases against minors, 920 against parents/vehicle owners.
- Accidents Caused by Minor Drivers: 2023: 58 deaths; 2024: 70 deaths; 2025: 61 deaths.
Source: Karnataka legislative council. The data reveals a persistent challenge, with enforcement efforts ramping up in response to the tragic loss of young lives on Karnataka's roads.
