CAG Flags Wrong Traffic Challans in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has flagged instances of incorrect traffic offences being booked in Odisha, including two-wheelers being fined for not wearing seat belts and three- and four-wheelers for not wearing helmets.

An analysis of VAHAN and e-Challan data for 2019-24 found 2,988 seat-belt violations booked against two-wheelers, involving fines of ₹29.88 lakh. Similarly, 4,786 helmet violations were booked against three- and four-wheelers, with fines totalling ₹47.86 lakh.

The CAG termed the instances indicative of a “casual approach” and pointed to inadequate validation controls in the VAHAN system.

The audit recommended cancellation of incorrect e-Challans and appropriate action against officials responsible for booking offences under incorrect sections. The Odisha government had earlier asked the CAG to provide details of the challans for further action.