Can only female police officers issue challans to women drivers? What are the rules?

Under the Motor Vehicle Act, traffic rules apply equally to all drivers. There's no provision in these rules that prevents a male police officer from issuing a challan to a female driver.

If you're driving improperly or not following the rules, the traffic police can issue you a challan. It's common on the roads to hear that only female police officers can stop or issue a challan if a woman is driving. This belief is most prevalent on social media, but many people don't know the truth behind it. So, let's explore whether only female police officers can issue challans to women drivers and what the rules are.

What does the law say about issuing challans?

Under the Motor Vehicle Act, traffic rules apply equally to all drivers, whether male or female. There is no provision in these rules that prohibits a male police officer from stopping or issuing a challan to a female driver. Similarly, the Supreme Court of India has not issued any order stating that a male police officer cannot take traffic action against a female driver, meaning that traffic rules are completely gender-neutral. Police can stop any vehicle for document checks or violations. Stopping a vehicle to check documents or issue a challan does not constitute arrest; it is part of normal traffic duties. In the traffic department, officers of the rank of Assistant Sub-Editor or above can ask for a driver's license and vehicle documents and issue a challan for a violation. This power is not linked to the driver's gender.

Rule for Stopping a Female Driver at Night

Most of the confusion regarding vehicle traffic rules arises from the rules related to arrests. Under the law, arrests of women after sunset must be made in the presence of a female police officer. However, this rule applies only to arrests or detentions, not to routine traffic checks. Many states attempt to deploy female police officers on night duty for safety and convenience, but this is not a legal requirement.

Navi Mumbai's action clears up confusion

In 2015, the Navi Mumbai Police launched a strict campaign against traffic violators. Male police officers issued challans to several female drivers violating the rules on Golf Club Road due to a shortage of female constables. The police clarified that the law does not differentiate between men and women.

Women Drivers Should Know These Rights

Women drivers should be aware that they are required to cooperate with legitimate traffic checks while driving.

Furthermore, under Section 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, a woman cannot be called to the police station alone.

At night, arrests cannot be made without the presence of a female police officer.

In case of any misconduct, a female driver can file a complaint on 112 or the relevant state police complaint portal.