Telangana High Court Issues Crucial Directions to Police on Drunk and Drive..

The Telangana High Court has clarified that police do not have the authority to seize vehicles merely on the grounds of drunk driving. It stated that if a person is found driving under the influence of alcohol, the vehicle should not be immediately confiscated and proper procedures under the Motor Vehicles Act must be strictly followed.

The court directed that legal procedures must be followed without fail in such cases. It further stated that if prosecution is necessary, charge sheets must be filed within three days in the magistrate court. The court also instructed that the vehicle should be handed over to a sober licensed driver or that family members should be informed. It warned that violation of these directions could lead to contempt of court proceedings.

Additionally, the High Court clarified that vehicles may be temporarily kept at police stations but such action should not be considered as formal seizure. It directed that vehicles must be released if valid documents such as RC and driving licence are produced. Magistrate courts have been instructed to accept charge sheets filed within three days. The court also emphasized that police officers must strictly comply with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act while handling drunk and drive cases.