The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has revealed that 1,525 driving licences have been cancelled across India between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2024. Tamil Nadu accounted for over half of these cancellations, with 734 licences revoked. The data was shared in the Rajya Sabha in response to a query raised by BJP MP Medha Vishram Kulkarni regarding the number of licences cancelled and the reasons behind them.
According to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the figures were compiled using data from the centralised Sarathi portal. The state transport departments of respective states and Union Territories carried out these cancellations. A closer examination of the data shows that overspeeding, fake documentation, and mobile phone usage while driving were the leading causes of licence revocations.
Among the 1,525 cancellations, overspeeding was the most frequent violation, leading to 318 licence revocations. Tamil Nadu reported the highest number of such cases (229), followed by Rajasthan (85) and Sikkim (four). Additionally, 261 licences were cancelled due to the submission of fake information or misrepresentation, all of which were from Tamil Nadu.
The use of mobile phones while driving resulted in the cancellation of 153 licences, with Uttar Pradesh (105) and Uttarakhand (47) recording the highest numbers. Meanwhile, 71 licences were revoked for drunken driving, with Kerala (32), Assam (25), and Karnataka (14) leading the statistics in this category. Overloading of goods vehicles accounted for 26 cancellations, with Madhya Pradesh registering 18 cases.
The minister also outlined the legal framework under which a driving licence can be cancelled. Under Section 19(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a licensing authority has the power to revoke a licence if the holder is found to be a habitual offender, an alcoholic, or addicted to narcotic drugs. Licences can also be cancelled if the holder has used a vehicle in a cognizable offense or if the licence was obtained through fraudulent means.
The ministry emphasized that these measures aim to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with traffic laws. With road accidents and traffic violations being major concerns in India, authorities are focusing on stricter enforcement to deter reckless driving and ensure safer roads for all commuters. The data highlights the need for continued vigilance and stricter monitoring to prevent violations and maintain road discipline across the country.
