Minors riding bikes without valid licence to face heat

MUMBAI: Minors caught riding motorcyles without a valid licence are set to face stringent action, after the transport commissioner recently issued a new circular

MUMBAI: Minors caught riding motorcyles without a valid licence are set to face stringent action, after the transport commissioner recently issued a new circular asking Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) across the state to tighten the screws on such offenders.

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While asking the RTOs to spread awareness among the people about the rules, the circular said those found in violation of the rules could be imprisoned or fined Rs1,000 or be imprisoned and fined.

RTO officials in Mumbai said they have already directed their flying squad officials to act against those who are found flouting the rule. They will take action against the vehicle owners in these cases, since there is no provision to act against minors.

The circular was issued following directives from the Nagpur bench of the Bombay high court over a PIL, which raised the issue of those below 18 riding bikes or scooters above 50cc engine capacity. According to section 4 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a person between 16 and 18 years is entitled to ride a two-wheeler having an engine capacity of less than 50cc, while section 7 allows a person to ride a two-wheeler without gears.

RTO officials said many of these individuals between 16 and 18 years were the ones acquiring a licence for riding two-wheelers without gears, but would then ride motorcycles with gears and having engine capacity of more than 50cc. The officials said they plan to now stop issuing licences if the applicant does not come in person with a two-wheeler that has engine capacity of less than 50cc.

“There was also confusion if 50cc was the criteria or motorbikes without gear was the criteria. To clear this, both criteria have to be followed,” said Pravin Gedam, transport commissioner, adding that they have brought this to the notice of the Union government.