Delhi becomes first Union Territory to lodge FIR for driving on wrong side

In one of the first instances, the Delhi police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) for driving on the wrong side of the road, making Delhi the first union territory to do so. The criminal case was filed under the provisions of the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). The case marks a significant step in the direction of enforcing traffic laws in the national capital. Authorities view the measure as a strategic step to curb hazardous road behaviour, offering stricter legal recourse beyond standard fines.

The FIR was lodged at the Delhi Cantonment police station on January 3 against a resident of Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur, for allegedly driving against the flow of traffic near the Hanuman Mandir red light.

According to the Delhi police, the accused did not have a valid driver's license or Vehicle insurance. The FIR, however, was registered under Section 281 of the BNS, which deals with rash or negligent driving on a public road, endangering human life.

Road safety continues to be a serious challenge in India. Official figures show that in 2023, over 1.73 lakh people lost their lives in road accidents, while nearly 4.6 lakh others were injured nationwide. Two-wheelers made up a significant portion of these deaths, underscoring ongoing dangers from over speeding and reckless driving despite continued safety initiatives.