Cops too fined for helmet rule violations in Hubballi-Dharwad

Hubballi: Police personnel are not above traffic laws in Hubballi-Dharwad twin cities, the police commissionerate has made clear by fining erring cops for riding without helmets and triple riding.In the last two days, three police staff were penalised after being caught violating traffic rules. The violations were recorded by the Traffic Management Centre (TMC), and photographs along with penalty receipts were posted on the commissionerate's social media handles. The move has drawn praise from netizens.CR Raveesha, deputy commissioner of police (crime & traffic), told TOI that the initiative has been in place since Jan 2025. "Police personnel are also citizens and must follow the same traffic rules as everyone else. If police violate rules, it sends the wrong message to the public. As a law-enforcing agency, we must act as role models," he said, adding that action was being taken under a government order issued on Oct 29, 2007.Raveesha said around 50 cases involving police personnel have been booked since Jan 2026. "We are now posting these cases on social media to build public trust and reinforce the message that no one is above the law on the roads. Apart from fines, erring personnel are also being warned to strictly follow traffic rules. This is also aimed at ensuring their own safety," he said.On how violations are detected, the DCP said TMC staff in Hubballi and Dharwad monitor CCTV footage and social media posts. "If any policeman is found violating traffic rules, action is taken immediately without sparing anyone," he said.Sudhir Mudhol, a Dharwad-based activist, said the move would strengthen public confidence in the police. "Police must follow the rules they enforce. Otherwise, they risk losing credibility among citizens," he said.Several social media users, including Manju Salagatti, Martin Punith, Narayan Meti, Sanjana C, Nagaraj B Jaligidad and Sharanu Salimath, praised the action online. Another user, Mahesh SP, suggested that the police set up a WhatsApp number for citizens to report violations.Police commissioner N Shashi Kumar was unavailable for comment.