Delhi Traffic Police will adopt a selective approach in registering FIRs against motorists for wrong-side driving, reserving criminal action as a last resort rather than applying it as a blanket policy. A senior official clarified this position on January 8, 2026, emphasizing that the primary focus will remain on awareness campaigns, issuing challans, and notices for violations, with FIRs being filed only in cases where the offense poses a clear life-threatening risk or involves habitual repeat offenders.
The decision follows recent discussions on stricter enforcement against wrong-side driving, which is considered one of the most dangerous traffic violations. The police will now assess each incident on a case-by-case basis before deciding to file an FIR under relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act and the Indian Penal Code, particularly when the act endangers lives or causes accidents.
Officials said they will also take into account extenuating circumstances before initiating criminal proceedings. These include situations where the violation may have occurred due to genuine mistakes, such as inadequate or missing signage, unclear road markings, confusing road directions, or emergency situations. In such cases, the emphasis will remain on corrective measures like challans, fines, and mandatory safety awareness sessions rather than immediate prosecution.
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The traffic police reiterated their commitment to road safety while ensuring that enforcement remains fair and proportionate. The selective FIR policy aims to deter reckless behavior without overburdening the criminal justice system with minor or unintentional violations.
The announcement has been welcomed by road safety experts, who note that while strong deterrence is necessary against dangerous driving, a nuanced approach helps prevent misuse of criminal provisions for routine traffic offenses. Delhi continues to report a high number of accidents linked to wrong-side driving, making it a key area of focus for traffic authorities.
The Delhi Traffic Police has urged motorists to adhere to lane discipline and road rules, reminding them that wrong-side driving not only endangers their own lives but also those of fellow road users. Awareness drives and stricter monitoring of high-risk stretches are expected to continue alongside the new enforcement guidelines.
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