The Chief Minister also detailed plans to enhance enforcement mechanisms through technology
In a bid to curb harassment of both local residents and tourists, the Goa government has introduced stringent new measures to regulate traffic law enforcement. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced on Friday that only police inspectors equipped with body cameras will be authorised to issue traffic challans during the daytime.
At night, the responsibility will extend to police inspectors and sub-inspectors—again, only if they are wearing body cameras. The new rules have been implemented with immediate effect, as part of broader efforts to ensure transparency in policing and improve public trust.
“These measures will stop harassment of locals and tourists. They will also do away with allegations levelled against police officers (of asking for bribes),” Sawant said at a press conference held at Mantralaya, Goa’s secretariat in Porvorim. The conference followed a high-level meeting of officials to review the rollout of new criminal laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.
AI & Cameras To Play Bigger Role In Enforcement
The Chief Minister also detailed plans to enhance enforcement mechanisms through technology. He said traffic violations will now be identified through dash cameras, digital roadside cameras, and devices equipped with Artificial Intelligence.
In a significant clarification, Sawant noted that no police personnel below the rank of sub-inspector—including constables, head constables, or assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs)—are permitted to issue fines. “If anyone of that rank is found issuing challans, then citizens can click their pictures and send them to the police department. Such officials will be suspended from duty,” he warned.
However, taluka-level nodal officers equipped with body cameras will be allowed to issue challans under the new system.
Crackdown On Roadside Cooking
The Chief Minister also issued a warning against tourists who bring gas stoves to cook meals on public roads. “Strict police action will be taken against those found cooking on roads,” he said, noting that such behaviour not only inconveniences the public but also poses safety hazards.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns from residents and visitors alike regarding erratic enforcement of traffic rules and sporadic instances of misconduct. The new policy aims to bring greater accountability and fairness to the process while minimising the scope for bribery and abuse of power.
With these changes, Goa joins a growing list of Indian states seeking to modernise traffic enforcement and policing through the use of surveillance technology and digital oversight.
