LI Network
Published on: November 16, 2023 at 11:44 IST
The Karnataka High Court has upheld the decision of the Trial Court, convicting a 22-year-old accused under Section 304-A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC) for driving recklessly and negligently.
The court expressed its concern over the rising number of accidents caused by drivers operating vehicles without valid licenses or insurance, emphasizing the need for adherence to traffic rules and proper documentation.
Justice Venkatesh Naik of the Bench observed, “This Court has been constantly noticing an increase in the number of accidents, especially without possessing any valid driving license and insurance policy. Drivers or riders of such vehicles are often rash and negligent, displaying youthful adventurous enthusiasm without possessing any valid documents, as if there are no traffic rules or legal discipline in place.”
The case involved an incident where the accused struck a pedestrian, Parameshaiah, resulting in fatal injuries. Parameshaiah was walking in the Irakasandra colony when the motorcycle-driven by the accused hit him.
The accused faced charges under various sections of the IPC and the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, leading to a six-month prison sentence and a fine of Rs. 5,000 imposed by the Trial Court.
Despite the petitioner having no prior criminal record and being the sole breadwinner for his family, the High Court, considering the gravity of the offense and the prevalent issue of accidents due to negligent driving, affirmed the six-month imprisonment.
The court reiterated the necessity of imposing a minimum six-month sentence for offenses under Section 304-A of the IPC. The accused, who was 22 years old at the time of the incident, had been involved in the legal proceedings since 2012.
In its final ruling, the Court dismissed the petition, thereby upholding the judgment and order of the Trial Court.
Case Title: Hanumantharayappa v State Of Karnataka (2023: KHC: 38014)
