Tirupati court orders community service for drunk driving
In Short
Read how a Tirupati court applied reformative punishment under BNSS-2023, sentencing a drunk driving offender to 10 days of community service at a police station and government hospital instead of a fine or jail term.
Share :
Representational Image
Tirupati: In a significant application of India’s new criminal laws, Tirupati court has sentenced a man to 10 days of community service for drunk driving, instead of imposing fine or jail term. The order highlights how courts are now using reformative punishments under Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita-2023 (BNSS) for traffic offences.
The accused, A Munikrishna (34) from Venkatagopalapuram in Renigunta mandal, was caught driving a car after consuming alcohol. He admitted the offence, and the case was tried under Section 185 of Motor Vehicles Act. After the offence was proved, the II Additional Special Judicial Magistrate imposed community service.
As per the order, Munikrishna must perform unpaid cleaning work for 10 days in and around Renigunta Urban Police Station and Renigunta Government Hospital. He must follow instructions from the Renigunta SHO, who will supervise the work. Failure to comply will invite further legal action, including possible imprisonment.
Community service is a new punishment under BNSS-2023, allowing magistrates to order unpaid work that benefits the community.
SP L Subba Rayudu warned that strict action against drunk driving will continue, while this case shows authorities are also exploring reformative options that make offenders contribute to public welfare.
