News: As Per New Traffic Rule, ‘C’ for Counselling, Not Challan: What Motorists Must Know
Indian traffic enforcement is gradually shifting from strict penal action to a more corrective approach. Under a new traffic enforcement guideline adopted by several states, traffic police can now issue ‘C’ for Counselling instead of an immediate challan for certain minor violations. The move aims to improve road discipline through awareness rather than fear of fines.
What Does ‘C for Counselling’ Mean?
The ‘C’ marking indicates that a motorist has committed a minor, non-dangerous traffic violation and has been advised or counselled by traffic police instead of being fined on the spot. The focus is on educating the rider or driver about the rule, its safety implications, and the importance of compliance.
This approach is typically applied to first-time or low-risk offences, where the violation does not directly endanger lives.
Which Violations May Qualify for Counselling?
While the exact list may vary by state and local traffic departments, counselling is generally considered for:
- Minor lane discipline errors
- Forgetting to carry certain documents (when records are digitally verifiable)
- First-time helmet or seatbelt lapses
- Non-aggressive or non-repeat offences
Serious violations such as drunk driving, overspeeding, signal jumping, or reckless riding will still attract heavy penalties and challans.
Why Traffic Authorities Are Adopting This Approach
Traffic officials have observed that penalties alone do not always result in long-term behavioural change. Counselling allows enforcement officers to explain:
- Why a rule exists
- How it impacts road safety
- The risks involved for the rider, driver, and others
This human-centric approach is especially effective for young riders and first-time offenders, helping them understand consequences before habits form.
Impact on Indian Road Safety
India continues to report a high number of road accidents annually, many of which are caused by negligence and lack of awareness rather than deliberate rule-breaking.
Authorities believe that counselling can:
- Reduce repeat offences
- Build long-term traffic discipline
- Improve public perception of traffic policing
By focusing on awareness, traffic departments aim to create responsible road users, not just compliant ones.
MotoGazer Take: Awareness Over Penalties Is a Step Forward
The introduction of ‘C for Counselling’ reflects a much-needed evolution in traffic enforcement. While strict penalties remain essential for dangerous violations, counselling recognizes that not every mistake is intentional. For Indian motorists especially daily commuters and two-wheeler riders this approach encourages learning rather than resentment.
However, consistency and clarity are key. Authorities must clearly communicate which offences qualify for counselling and ensure the system is not misused. If implemented transparently, this policy could play a meaningful role in improving road behaviour and overall safety on Indian roads.
What Motorists Should Keep in Mind
- Counselling is not a free pass for repeated violations
- Repeat offenders may still face challans
- Rules vary by state and city
- Compliance remains the safest and cheapest option
Does recording counselling sessions affect you later?
Many motorists commonly worry about whether authorities officially record a counselling warning. In many cities, traffic police digitally log counselling interactions through their enforcement systems, even without issuing a challan. Although this does not lead to an immediate fine, repeat violations of the same kind can reduce the chances of receiving counselling again. Motorists should treat counselling as a formal warning rather than a casual interaction.
If a driver repeats the same offence, traffic authorities are more likely to issue a challan the next time. In some cases, authorities may also consider repeated counselling notes during traffic violation reviews or special enforcement drives.
To avoid complications, drivers and riders should consistently follow traffic rules, carry valid documents, and use digital platforms such as DigiLocker or mParivahan where applicable. Awareness today can prevent penalties tomorrow.
