Supreme Court Urges Central Government to Reevaluate Driving License Regulations

Supreme Court Urges Central Government to Reevaluate Driving License Regulations. Image/PTI

A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court has directed the Central government to review the law governing the use of driving licenses for Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) to operate transport vehicles of a specific weight. The court has given the government a two-month timeframe to conduct this examination, emphasizing the potential impact on the livelihoods of numerous individuals.

Consideration of Road Safety and Policy

The bench, comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices Hrishikesh Roy, PS Narasimha, Pankaj Mithal, and Manoj Mishra, stressed that any interpretation of the law must carefully consider valid concerns related to road safety and the safety of other public transport users.

Holistic Approach and Policy Decision

The Supreme Court has directed the government to adopt a holistic approach to the matter, moving beyond mere legalities, as the issue involves policy decisions. In its order, the bench stated, “It would be necessary for this court to have a fresh look at the matter by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The decision, in this case, must await policy considerations and whether a change in law is needed, and to mull over the way ahead, we hold that the matter needs to be taken up at the policy level by the government. Once the government informs its stand to the court, the hearing in the Constitution Bench will thereafter be taken up. We request the Union to wrap up the exercise within two months and apprise the court. We have expressed nothing on the merits of the referral order.”

Background and Reversal of 2017 Verdict

This directive comes in the context of a batch of pleas filed by insurance companies seeking the reversal of a 2017 verdict that permitted LMV license holders to operate transport vehicles.

The court’s decision reflects the importance of balancing the livelihoods of individuals with road safety and regulatory considerations, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of the existing regulations.

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