Srinagar Court Convicts Guardian After Minor Caught Driving; Says Letting Children Drive Only Creates More Victims
07.12.2025 | Srinagar
Court stresses strict responsibility of parents and guardians under the Motor Vehicles Act, warning that allowing minors behind the wheel endangers both the child and the public.
The Srinagar District Court has delivered a firm and cautionary verdict in a case involving a minor who was found driving a vehicle without a valid licence, holding the child’s guardian guilty and declaring that “allowing minors to drive only produces more victims.” The judgment highlights growing concerns over underage driving and reinforces the legal accountability placed on parents and guardians under the Motor Vehicles Act.
According to case records, local authorities apprehended the minor during a routine traffic inspection in Srinagar. The child was reportedly operating a four-wheeler on a public road without a driving licence, mandatory training, or age eligibility. Following the stop, the police initiated proceedings not only against the minor but also against the guardian responsible for custody of the child, as mandated by law.
In the courtroom, the prosecution argued that underage driving is a rising threat across various parts of the country, contributing to a number of avoidable accidents involving both minors and unsuspecting road users. The prosecutor emphasised that such acts are not “harmless experimentation” but serious violations with the potential to cause injury, property damage, or even loss of life. By allowing or failing to prevent the minor from driving, the guardian had acted negligently, they contended.
Presiding over the matter, the court delivered strong remarks underscoring the dangers of underage driving. The judge noted that minors—due to lack of maturity, skill, and legal permission—cannot be trusted with the responsibility of driving on public roads. The court observed that when a minor illegally drives a vehicle, the risks multiply not only for the child but also for pedestrians, passengers, and other motorists.
The judgment went on to state that parents and guardians have a legal and moral duty to ensure that minors do not operate motor vehicles until they are of eligible age and possess a valid driving licence. Ignoring this duty, the court said, “turns roads into potential danger zones and produces victims who could have been saved.” The judge further warned that such negligence cannot be excused or overlooked, and strict enforcement is necessary to safeguard the public.
Consequently, the court convicted the guardian under relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act, which impose penalties—both monetary fines and, in some cases, imprisonment—for permitting an underage person to drive. The court also directed authorities to ensure that the minor undergoes counselling regarding road safety and legal compliance.
Legal experts say this ruling adds to a growing trend in Indian courts, where stricter stances are being taken against guardians responsible for such violations. With instances of reckless and inexperienced minor drivers frequently surfacing in traffic records, courts are increasingly stressing the need for parental awareness and discipline. The Srinagar judgment, they believe, sends a strong message that mere warnings are no longer enough.
Traffic officials welcomed the verdict, stating that it reinforces the seriousness of the offence. They noted that despite continuing awareness campaigns, many households still allow young, unlicensed children to drive two-wheelers or cars inside local streets and neighbourhoods. Authorities argue that even within small lanes, accidents can occur unexpectedly, and a child’s inability to respond quickly may lead to severe outcomes.
The court’s ruling serves as a timely reminder for families across the region and the country. As road traffic increases and accident statistics remain a concern, enforcing legal age limits for driving becomes crucial. The judgment makes it clear — parents and guardians cannot treat driving as a casual activity for children, nor assume that a “short drive” is harmless. Instead, they must actively prevent minors from gaining control of any motorised vehicle until they are trained, mature, and legally authorised.
With this conviction, the Srinagar court aims to encourage responsible behaviour among guardians and promote safer roads for all.
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