Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji
Panaji, Apr 5: In a major step to curb alleged police harassment and corruption, the Goa government has restricted the power to issue traffic challans solely to Police Inspectors (PIs) and Police Sub-Inspectors (PSIs) equipped with body cameras. The move, effective from Friday, applies to all police stations and traffic units across the state.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, speaking after a high-level review meeting on the new criminal laws' enforcement, said a formal notification will follow on Saturday.
“From today onwards, only Police Inspectors with bodycams can issue challans during the day. At night, both PIs and PSIs with bodycams are permitted to do so. No other personnel are authorised,” the CM said, underlining that the action was prompted by mounting complaints from both tourists and residents.
The government has also introduced an AI-enabled system where violations can be recorded using dash cams, signal cameras, and other surveillance systems. “The photo or video will serve as proof, and the challan will be sent directly to the violator’s registered address,” Sawant said.
Sawant emphasized that only in the case of major violations will vehicles be stopped on the road. “For routine offenses, the evidence will be collected, and action will be taken later. No need to stop every vehicle,” he added.
Issuing a stern warning to lower-ranked police officials, Sawant stated, “If anyone below the rank of PI or PSI is found issuing challans or collecting fines, citizens should take their photo and send it to the department. Immediate suspension will follow.”
The CM further clarified that even on Goa’s beaches, police officers are barred from demanding spot fines. “They must direct people to the nearest police station. The same rules apply to the RTO — only taluka-level nodal officers with bodycams can issue challans,” he said.
While stressing transparency, the Chief Minister also urged the public not to generalize or malign the entire police force due to the actions of a few.