Disobeying Traffic Authority / Police
Written and checked byManju Shekhar· Motor Law & Compliance
Refusing to comply with lawful directions of a traffic police officer or authority.
Fine (1st)
Up to ₹2,000
What the Law Says
Every driver is required to comply with lawful directions given by a traffic police officer or any officer of the Motor Vehicles Department. This includes stopping the vehicle when signalled, producing documents on demand, and following directions at the scene of an accident or checkpoint. Obstruction, verbal abuse, or physical resistance can lead to additional charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita — Sec. 221 (obstructing a public servant) or Sec. 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant).
"Whoever wilfully disobeys any direction lawfully given by any person or authority empowered under this Act to give such direction, or obstructs any person or authority in the discharge of any functions which such person or authority is required or empowered under this Act to discharge, shall, if no other penalty is provided for the offence be liable to penalty which may extend to two thousand rupees." — Sec. 179(1), MV Act 1988, as amended in 2019 and by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026
Consequences
- Penalty of up to ₹2,000 for disobeying or obstructing (Sec. 179(1))
- Penalty of ₹500–₹2,000 for wilfully withholding or falsifying information an officer is entitled to (Sec. 179(2)) — the one-month jail term was removed from 15 August 2026
- Additional charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Sec. 221 obstruction, Sec. 132 assault) if applicable
How to Avoid This Violation
- ✓Always stop when an officer signals — never attempt to drive away
- ✓Keep documents ready at checkpoints to make the process quick
What to Do If Caught
- 1.Comply with the officer's directions first — contest illegality through proper channels later
- 2.Request the officer's name and badge number for your records
- 3.File a complaint with the police commissioner if you believe the stop was unlawful
Legal Reference
Section 179, MV Act
Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 179; MV (Amendment) Act, 2019; Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026
Related Violations
Information sourced from Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 179; MV (Amendment) Act, 2019; Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. For awareness only — consult a legal professional for specific advice.