Maharashtra Directs Traffic Police Not to Force On-Spot E-Challan Payments or Seize Vehicles

The Maharashtra State Traffic Police has issued a state-wide directive instructing officers not to force motorists to pay pending e-challans on the spot and not to seize vehicles without a court order.

The order was issued through a circular by Pravin Salunkhe, Additional Director General of Police (Traffic), following complaints from transport unions about harassment and coercive recovery practices.

The directive comes after transport associations raised concerns about traffic personnel allegedly detaining vehicles and pressuring drivers to immediately clear pending e-challans during roadside checks.

Circular Issued After Complaints from Transport Unions

The circular, issued on 4 March 2026, was sent to police commissioners and district superintendents across Maharashtra.

It instructs officers to ensure that e-challan payments are accepted only when motorists choose to pay voluntarily.

According to the directive, traffic personnel do not have the authority to compel drivers to immediately pay pending fines during roadside inspections.

Officers have also been instructed to maintain professional and courteous behaviour when interacting with motorists.

Vehicles Cannot Be Seized Without Court Orders

The circular also clarifies that vehicles cannot be seized solely because of unpaid e-challans.

Any seizure must follow proper legal procedures and must be supported by orders from a competent court.

The directive specifically prohibits officers from detaining vehicles or withholding documents to pressure drivers into paying fines immediately.

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Complaints Raised in High-Level Meeting

The instructions were issued following a high-level meeting held on 2 March and chaired by Pratap Sarnaik, Transport Minister of Maharashtra.

Representatives from several transport associations attended the meeting and raised complaints that traffic personnel were:

• Stopping vehicles without clear reasons
• Detaining vehicles for extended periods
• Demanding immediate payment of pending e-challans
• Asking for unofficial cash settlements when drivers could not pay
• Using threatening behaviour or verbal abuse

The transport groups had earlier warned of a nationwide strike planned for 5 March, which prompted the government to address the issue.

Existing SOP Must Be Followed

The circular also reminded officers that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for e-challan recovery and vehicle seizure has been in place since 11 November 2024.

Authorities stated that the recent complaints indicate non-compliance with existing rules rather than the absence of regulations.

Senior officers have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the SOP across all jurisdictions.

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Disciplinary Action for Violations

The traffic department has warned that any officer found violating the guidelines will face disciplinary action. Senior officials have been instructed to monitor enforcement closely and take immediate action in cases of misconduct.

The directive aims to ensure that traffic enforcement remains within legal limits while improving public trust in the traffic police system.