Government's Intention Is To Save Lives, Not Earn Revenue Through Fines, Says Nitin Gadkari

Responding to sharp reactions from several Opposition parties and citizens of the country, Gadkari pointed out that the number of deaths caused by road accidents are highest in the country.

Gadkari also pointed out that states are free to make changes in penalties. (File Photo/ Getty)

New Delhi: Highlighting the real motive behind implementation of the new Motor Vehicle Act, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday said the government's intention behind bringing the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act (MV Act) was not to collect revenues through fines but to save lives of people. Responding to sharp reactions from several Opposition parties and citizens of the country, Gadkari pointed out that the number of deaths caused by road accidents are highest in the country. "First of all, the MV Act comes under the Concurrent List. Both state and central governments have a right to make laws on it. As for the fines, there is a gap like from Rs 10 to 100. So, the state government can take a decision in this regard. It is not the government's intention to earn revenue through fines," the minister said while speaking to reporters earlier in the day. "The problem is they neither have fear nor respect for laws. Aren't the lives of people more important than fines? If you don't break the laws, you won't be fined," he said. Further thanking media for highlights fine incidents and spreading awareness, Gadkari said: "And I want to thank you for your (media) reporting. Now, people are getting their driving licenses and other documents. Accident will reduce. The lives of people will be saved, that is our priority." Gadkari also responded to a question on some state governments are reportedly planning to dilute the act by reducing the fines. He said that Centre has no objection on states bringing down penalties for traffic violation under the new MV Act. The minister also pointed out that states are free to make changes in penalties given the subject is the concurrent list. "The penalties are already part of the new (Motor Vehicles) Act, we are not going to change them. Even if the states are earning revenue from these penalties, it will go to their kitty, and come to the Centre," the BJP leader added.