Karnataka police chief halts routine document checks after two fatal incidents

In the wake of two tragic deaths linked to roadside checks, Karnataka’s top police official has directed the state traffic police to refrain from stopping vehicles solely for document verification. This new directive aims to prioritize road safety and minimize disruptions caused by traffic checks.

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The circular, issued by Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) MA Saleem, comes just days after a fatal road accident in Mandya district. On May 26, a child lost her life during a vehicle check conducted on a busy highway. The incident occurred as police were stopping vehicles without implementing adequate safety protocols or managing traffic flow, leading to severe congestion and a fatal outcome.

A similar incident occurred earlier on May 13 in Davanagere district. During a routine vehicle check, a speeding truck struck and killed a police officer. These back-to-back incidents have raised concerns over the safety practices employed during roadside inspections.

In response, the police chief has instructed all personnel to avoid halting motorists solely for checking documents. Instead, officers are to ensure that all enforcement actions are carried out with due consideration for traffic conditions, road safety measures, and public convenience.

The directive underscores a shift in enforcement strategy, urging the force to adopt safer, more efficient methods of ensuring compliance with traffic rules without endangering lives or contributing to road congestion.