Sullia: In a unique judgment aimed at promoting road safety awareness, a court in Sullia has ordered a habitual traffic rule violator to perform community service in addition to paying a monetary fine.
The order was passed after the accused was found guilty of repeatedly violating traffic rules within Sullia town. The court directed that apart from paying fines, the individual must spend 15 days educating the public about traffic safety at busy junctions.
The decision has drawn attention locally, with many residents appreciating the court’s approach of combining punishment with public awareness.
Multiple traffic violations registered
According to case details, Rakshith G., a resident of Sullia, was found violating traffic regulations multiple times on March 12, 2026.
Following the violations, Sub-Inspector Santosh B.P. of the Sullia Police Station registered three separate petty cases against him under the Indian Motor Vehicles (IMV) Act.
The cases were booked under Sections 119 read with 177, Section 184, and Section 194(C) of the IMV Act, which relate to disobeying traffic signs, dangerous driving, and other traffic-related violations.
After the cases were registered, the police completed the investigation and filed a charge sheet before the Sullia SCJ and JMFC Court for further proceedings.
Court imposes fine and special punishment
After hearing the case and reviewing the evidence presented by the prosecution, the Sullia SCJ and JMFC Court delivered its judgment imposing both financial penalties and community service.
The court imposed a total fine of ₹3,000 in two separate cases against the accused.
In addition to the fine, the court issued a special order directing the offender to perform community service for 15 days. The service period will run from March 15 to March 29, 2026.
During this period, Rakshith G. has been instructed to stand at major traffic junctions across Sullia town and spread awareness among the public about the importance of following traffic rules.
Placards to promote traffic awareness
As part of the community service directive, the court has also instructed the accused to carry placards displaying traffic awareness messages while performing the service.
The purpose of this measure is to highlight the importance of road discipline and encourage motorists and pedestrians to follow traffic regulations.
Officials say such awareness initiatives can help reduce violations and accidents by reminding road users about basic safety practices such as obeying traffic signals, wearing helmets, and following speed limits.
Driving licence suspended
Apart from the fine and community service, the court also ordered the suspension of the accused’s driving licence for a period of three months.
Authorities said the suspension is intended to serve as a deterrent and prevent further violations during the period.
Legal observers note that such combined penalties — including fines, licence suspension and community service — are increasingly being used by courts to promote responsible driving behaviour.
Verdict receives public appreciation
The verdict has been widely appreciated by members of the public in Sullia and nearby areas. Many residents believe the judgment sends a strong message to habitual traffic offenders.
Locals say that making violators educate others about traffic rules is an effective way to create awareness while also ensuring accountability.
Conclusion
Road safety officials say that traffic violations continue to be a major concern across towns and cities in Karnataka. Authorities hope that innovative punishments like community service will help instil greater discipline among road users.
The Sullia court’s decision is now being viewed as an example of how corrective punishment can be used not only to penalise offenders but also to promote public awareness and responsible driving habits.