Chennai Local News

Video Of Alleged Chennai Traffic Police Wearing No ID Imposing Fine On Goods Carrier Driver Goes Viral, Driver Says Fine Imposed For No Reason

May 8, 2024
The Commune

A video capturing a rental goods carrier engaged in a heated argument with traffic police over a ₹500 fine despite possessing all required documents is gaining traction on social media. The incident unfolded in Chennai’s Kolathur area, where the driver confronted the police about the imposition of the fine, insisting that he had a valid license. The confrontation occurred during a routine vehicle check near the Senthil Nagar signal in Kolathur.

The altercation began when the traffic police stopped a small cargo vehicle carrying school textbooks and attempted to levy a ₹500 fine. The driver of the cargo vehicle Senthamizhan became agitated, questioning the basis for the fine and even challenging the legitimacy of the officer’s identity due to the absence of a name badge on the uniform. Despite presenting his driving license and other necessary documents, the driver felt unjustly targeted by the police.

The Senthamizhan vehemently protested, arguing that he was within the permissible weight limit and demanding an explanation for the alleged violation. Expressing frustration, he remarked sarcastically about the ease of obtaining money by the police, mentioning his educational qualifications as a defense against perceived unfair treatment.

The incident escalated as the driver expressed his discontent, citing his extensive driving experience. Footage of the incident quickly circulated online, prompting public scrutiny of the police’s actions. Subsequently, the driver received a message on his phone informing him of a fine for driving without a license, further fueling outrage among netizens who questioned the basis for such penalties given the driver’s compliance with documentation requirements.

Driver Senthamizhan said “I was carrying a load of school books, Kadambathur is the drop for me from MKB Nagar Vyasarpadi, for me two drops one is Kadambathur and the other one is near Kummidipoondi near Tiruvallur I was coming for it, I was coming via Kolathur route and when I crossed Senthil Nagar signal they put a barricade on the middle of road and asked me to pull over the vehicle. I asked why are you asking me to pull over the vehicle the sergeant present there said ‘Go there they’ll say’. I pulled over the vehicle, the incharge came with me went there and asked ‘what happened sir?’. A school incharge came with me for the books. When he went and asked, he (police) asked to put a small case and leave. He has asked ‘Sir, why should you put a small case and leave without saying anything, what’s this,  for what? . He (police)  asked who are you? he said I am incharge, he (police)  said tell the driver to come, I got down. I (Driver) asked what sir, you don’t know why, you should’ve come why are you sending him to come, just take a case and go. When I (Driver)asked what the case was, he said it was an obstruction case. I (Driver) said sir tell me what obstruction is, he (police)  said obstruction means obstruction, what to say other than that. what obstruction sir, he (police) said I don’t know English, (Driver) I know, I asked you to explain what obstruction is, but he didn’t explain anything, no proper answer was provided.”

Afterward, Senthamizhan informed the traffic police that he would document the entire encounter. In response, the officer dismissively retorted, “Do whatever you want.” Later, addressing reporters, Senthamizhan emphasized his qualifications as a postgraduate in mathematics and holder of a degree, asserting his adherence to regulations. He pointed out that his vehicle, a 2021 model, had recently passed its fitness certification, and all his documentation was in order. Frustrated, Senthamizhan expressed disbelief at being fined despite having all the necessary paperwork, suggesting a prevalent trend of extortion—either face legal action or pay a bribe, colloquially known as “entry,” typically amounting to 50 rupees. He also highlighted that he had adhered to the prescribed weight standards, as demonstrated in the video footage. Senthamizhan expressed dismay over the situation, highlighting the challenges of earning a meager daily income and the numerous financial responsibilities associated with running a vehicle and managing household expenses. He found it distressing and appalling that the police were resorting to such methods to extract money from individuals like himself.

Authorities have taken note of the viral video, pledging a thorough investigation and appropriate action against those involved. Concerns have been raised by motorists regarding the indiscriminate imposition of fines by traffic police, calling for clearer directives from higher authorities to ensure fair enforcement of regulations.

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