Odisha traffic police issue bizarre fines: bikes fined for seat belts, cars for helmets

Odisha's traffic police have issued fines based on inverted traffic rules, according to a Comptroller and Auditor General audit. The CAG found that 2,988 two-wheeler riders were penalised for not wearing seat belts, while 4,786 car drivers received challans for not having helmets.

Seat belts are mandatory only for four-wheelers under traffic regulations, while helmets are required for two-wheeler riders. The audit highlights a systemic error in traffic enforcement across the state, raising questions about the quality of administrative oversight in the transport department.