Traffic Fines Row: BJP Calls Auto-Debit Plan an Assault on Privacy

Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao strongly criticized Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s proposal to collect fines for traffic violations through an auto-debit system . He alleged that the move infringes on citizens’ privacy and exposes the Congress party’s double standards .

BJP slams Congress’ double standards

Speaking to the media in Hyderabad on Tuesday, Ramchander Rao said the BJP does not support violations of traffic rules and agrees that offenders should be penalized . However, he expressed serious concerns over the proposed auto-debit mechanism . Linking the bank accounts of traffic violators with government departments and directly deducting fines , he argued, violates the fundamental right to privacy .

Recalling the Congress party’s earlier opposition to the Centre’s ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app on privacy grounds , Ramchander Rao said it was hypocritical for the party to now attempt a similar system at the state level . He warned that citizens’ bank accounts, financial details, and personal privacy could be put at risk , calling the proposal a step toward digital surveillance . Such measures, he said, would create fear among the public , and any major decision in a democratic system should follow wide-ranging discussions .

What is CM Revanth Reddy’s proposal?

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy directed the police to adopt a strict approach toward traffic safety . He made it clear that no concessions should be given in drunk driving cases , stating that year-end discounts on traffic fines have encouraged rule violations .

The Chief Minister suggested linking vehicle owners’ bank accounts at the time of registration so that traffic fines can be automatically debited . He instructed police to take stringent action against drunk driving and emphasized that waiving challans promotes negligence . No exemptions should be allowed in the future , he asserted.

Against this backdrop, the auto-debit proposal has triggered intense political debate . While the government argues that strict enforcement is necessary for traffic regulation and road safety , opposition parties continue to raise serious concerns over privacy and individual rights .