Invoke licence revocation power for drunken driving: Kerala High Court to MVD

Mangalore Today News Network

Kochi, Nov 5, 2026: The Kerala High Court has expressed concern over the Motor Vehicle Department’s (MVD) reluctance to revoke or suspend the driving licences of motorists caught driving under the influence of alcohol. It has directed authorities to strictly enforce the relevant legal provisions in cases of drunken driving, which continues to claim lives across the state.

Justice Kauser Edappagath observed that the authorities were invoking their powers under Section 19 of the Motor Vehicles Act, which provides for disqualification or revocation of driving licences, only sparingly despite statutory provisions and earlier judicial directives.

The court said such reluctance undermines the legislative intent and weakens the deterrent effect of the law.

"At a time when incidents of drunken driving continue to claim precious lives and leave families devastated, it is imperative that the authorities exercise the powers conferred under Section 19 of the MV Act with the seriousness that the situation demands," the court observed.

It further noted that effective enforcement would ensure accountability and serve as a strong deterrent against irresponsible and dangerous behaviour on public roads.

The court directed the Transport Commissioner to ensure prompt and effective action under Section 19 in appropriate drunken-driving cases.

It specifically instructed that whenever a road accident is prima facie linked to a driver’s intoxication, the Licensing Authority must examine the matter without delay and consider initiating proceedings for disqualification or revocation of the driving licence in accordance with the law.

The directions assume significance amid growing concerns over road accidents involving youngsters driving at high speeds, sometimes under the influence of alcohol.

The court issued the directions while granting bail to a man accused of driving under the influence of alcohol and ramming his car into a two-wheeler. The collision left the rider grievously injured, and he later succumbed to his injuries.

The court also directed the investigating officer to immediately forward the bail applicant’s driving licence and relevant records to the competent Licensing Authority for initiating proceedings under Section 19 of the MV Act.

The Licensing Authority was instructed to proceed in accordance with the law after following the principles of natural justice.