Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Monday warned that strict action would be taken against reckless driving, traffic violations and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

He said young people should not assume that they could escape action for offences because of the protection available under the Juvenile Justice Act. The government would consider changes to the Act if required, he added.

Chennithala also urged parents not to allow underage children to drive vehicles. “Most importantly, there will be stringent action against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” he told reporters.

His remarks followed a series of road accidents in Keralam, including incidents involving minors driving vehicles, some while intoxicated, which resulted in several deaths.

The minister said he had issued strict instructions to police across the state to act against people driving while intoxicated. Police would conduct combing operations as part of the enforcement drive, according to PTI.

Referring to school bus drivers, Chennithala said a recent inspection found 57 drivers ferrying children while under the influence of alcohol.

“Imagine parents sending children to school in the morning and the driver of the bus happens to be intoxicated. Strict action will be taken against such persons, there will be no compromise,” he said.

“Therefore, erratic driving, driving while intoxicated, violation of traffic rules or racing, especially among private buses, will not be permitted,” the minister said.

Chennithala also warned private bus drivers that the government was considering cancelling the licences of those found speeding and causing accidents.

On Sunday, Chief Minister VD Satheesan said there would be no compromise on road safety and that strict action would be taken against “reckless driving and dangerous racing between private buses” on state roads.

The state government has reiterated that it will act against reckless and intoxicated driving, traffic violations and racing, while also urging parents to prevent minors from driving.

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