Patna: Bihar has introduced a new directive prohibiting police officers from issuing traffic fines using mobile phone cameras. Under the new rule, all fines must be processed through hand-held devices (HHDs), which are now mandatory for generating e-challans across the state.
The decision follows multiple complaints from the public regarding the misuse of mobile phones by constable-level officers in several districts. The police headquarters has warned that strict action will be taken against any officer found violating this directive.
Concerns Lead to Policy Change
Reports had emerged that police officers were using mobile cameras to photograph vehicle number plates and later generating e-challans using hand-held devices. In some cases, officers below the rank of sub-inspector (Daroga) were allegedly coercing vehicle owners into paying fines by threatening to issue challans.
In response, the police headquarters issued a fresh directive to senior police officers across the state, instructing them to ensure full compliance with the use of HHDs for issuing fines. Officers found in violation of this rule will face disciplinary action.
E-Challan System Enhances Transparency
The shift to HHDs marks the complete phasing out of manual challans, which were traditionally issued on red and yellow slips. Over 1,800 HHDs have been distributed across districts to streamline the e-challan system.
According to senior police officials, e-challans generated by HHDs will now include key details such as the geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude), along with the exact time and date of the violation. This integration is intended to ensure greater transparency and reduce opportunities for malpractice. The police headquarters emphasized that adherence to the new system is critical to maintaining this level of accountability.
Medical Transfers of Police Personnel Approved
Separately, the Bihar Police headquarters has approved the transfer of 52 officers and personnel on medical grounds, although 124 similar requests were rejected. A committee was formed to review these applications, with a medical team evaluating the validity of the claims.
The officers granted transfers have been reassigned to various units within the police headquarters. The committee also scrutinized cases where medical transfers were deemed unnecessary, particularly in situations where treatment could be provided within the officer’s current district.
