Mangaluru Police Commissioner Clarifies Viral Auto Check Incident
In response to a widely circulated video on social media, Mangaluru Commissioner of Police Sudheer Kumar Reddy CH has issued a detailed clarification regarding an incident where traffic police inspected an autorickshaw reportedly transporting a dialysis patient from Kerala to a hospital in Deralakatte. The video, which sparked public debate, shows authorities checking medical records during the stop on Thursday.
Permit Violation Under Motor Vehicle Rules
Commissioner Reddy emphasized that the auto driver was in clear violation of permit regulations. The vehicle, registered in Kerala, was being used for commercial passenger transport without proper authorization. "The driver himself has stated that the vehicle has Kerala registration. However, it is being used to carry passengers for hire. This is clearly a violation under motor vehicle rules," Reddy explained. He further noted that the presence of patients does not exempt private vehicles from being converted into commercial ones, as such usage is not permitted by law.
Context of Local Auto Regulations in Mangaluru
Reddy highlighted the stringent regulations governing local auto drivers in Mangaluru city. These operators have obtained permits at significant cost and must comply with area restrictions outlined in district magistrate notifications. "Despite challenges, they continue to follow the rules, struggling for their livelihood," he said. In this context, he argued that expecting enforcement agencies to overlook violations simply because a vehicle is from another state is neither fair nor practical.
Discretion and Humanitarian Grounds in Enforcement
The Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) involved in the incident performed his duty by:
- Checking the vehicle for compliance.
- Informing the driver about the violation and applicable fine.
- Choosing not to impose a penalty on humanitarian grounds.
This action demonstrated discretion rather than wrongdoing, as the ASI was unaware of the patients' presence before stopping the vehicle. Reddy urged that to avoid inconvenience, individuals should comply with rules, and any compassionate consideration should be requested respectfully, not demanded as a right.
Call for Fairness to Rule-Abiding Auto Drivers
Commissioner Reddy concluded by advocating for the voices of Mangaluru's rule-abiding auto drivers, who face daily struggles to operate legally within city areas. He cautioned against supporting illegal autos seeking concessions under compassionate grounds as a matter of right, stressing the importance of upholding regulations for all.
