Is Kerala HC Addressing Road Safety Risks from LED and DJ-Style Vehicle Lights?
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has raised serious concerns over road safety violations arising from unauthorized vehicle modifications, such as LED lights and DJ-style lighting. A recent court session revealed alarming footage showcasing the dangers posed to passengers and road users. The court is taking decisive steps to enforce compliance with safety regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala High Court is taking a stand against unauthorized vehicle modifications.
- Safety regulations like AIS-008 and AIS-052 are crucial for road safety.
- Immediate action is necessary to protect passengers and other road users.
- Filming inside moving vehicles violates driving regulations.
- Authorities must impose stricter penalties to deter violations.
Kochi, Nov 21 (NationPress) In a strong caution regarding the escalating road safety breaches, the Kerala High Court viewed several video clips available on YouTube, showcasing buses and freight vehicles equipped with unauthorized LED strips, blinking name boards, and pulsating DJ-style lights.
The Division Bench, consisting of Justice Anil K. Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S., expressed grave concern about the risks these unauthorized alterations present to both passengers and other individuals on the road.
The court underscored that these vehicles blatantly disregard the Central Government’s AIS-008 and AIS-052 safety regulations that oversee vehicle illumination and bus design.
It also pointed out that capturing footage inside drivers’ cabins while the vehicle is in motion contravenes the Motor Vehicles Driving Regulations, 2017.
One video presented in open court illustrated three vehicles colliding while filming was ongoing inside the driver’s compartment.
“What did the passengers do to deserve this?” the High Court inquired, labeling it as reckless conduct that jeopardizes innocent lives.
In another instance, students were observed dancing inside a moving bus under the glow of flashing LED lights, while parents and others documented the spectacle.
“How can such beacon-like lights be permitted on these vehicles? Even parents are endorsing it,” the High Court remarked, cautioning that such unauthorized lighting could blind oncoming drivers, heightening the risk of accidents.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of stringent enforcement from authorities, the Bench noted that fines should be levied for each unauthorized light installed instead of treating the infraction with leniency.
Previously, the court had requested a comprehensive action report from the State regarding vlogging and unauthorized lighting in vehicles.
On Friday, the State confirmed that the Transport Commissioner had issued orders to Deputy Transport Commissioners to enhance enforcement against such breaches.
In its interim order, the High Court instructed the Transport Commissioner and the State Police Chief to take rigorous, immediate measures to avert such safety infractions.
The court also called for identifying educational institutions depicted in the videos and obtaining reports from enforcement officers concerning statutory violations.
Video footage was mandated to be sent to the State Transport Commissioner and officials in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways responsible for road safety.
“This is how the system should operate,” the court stated, urging for decisive action and accountability.
The case is scheduled for further hearing in two weeks.
Point of View
Our responsibility is to advocate for public safety and ensure adherence to regulations that protect lives. The Kerala High Court's intervention is a vital step toward enforcing road safety norms. Upholding these standards is crucial for the well-being of all road users, and it is imperative that authorities take swift action against violations.
NationPress
21/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Kerala High Court concerned about LED lights in vehicles?
The court is worried that unauthorized LED lights and other modifications pose significant safety risks to passengers and other road users.
What regulations are being violated by these vehicle modifications?
These modifications violate the Central Government’s AIS-008 and AIS-052 safety norms concerning vehicle lighting and bus body design.
What actions has the Kerala High Court taken regarding these violations?
The court has directed the Transport Commissioner and State Police Chief to enforce strict measures against unauthorized vehicle modifications and has called for reports on statutory violations.
Are there any penalties for these violations?
Yes, the court suggested that fines should be imposed for each unauthorized light fitted on vehicles.
What is the next step in this case?
The case is set for further hearing in two weeks, where more actions may be discussed.
