Hyderabad: A shocking video of a minor driving an auto-rickshaw with a woman seated indecently on his lap on Chaderghat Bridge has gone viral on social media. The incident has sparked outrage and led to swift action by the police and the Juvenile Justice Board.
Minor identified and held
After the video spread online, the Hyderabad Police traced the auto driver and took him into custody. During the investigation, officials confirmed that the driver was a minor, which added another layer of legal consequences to the case.
Punishment ordered
The Juvenile Justice Board has ordered the minor to perform community service at its office for one month. The punishment requires him to report daily from 10 am to 2 pm for the next 30 days.
Why this case stands out
The incident has drawn attention for two major reasons. First, it involves a minor driving a commercial vehicle, which is a violation of the Motor Vehicles Act. Second, the obscene nature of the video has raised concerns about public decency and the safety of passengers.
Stricter enforcement against minor driving
Hyderabad Police have been cracking down on underage driving. In the first five months of 2026 alone, 2,539 cases of minors driving were recorded. The city police have even proposed that schools award negative marks to students caught driving underage.
Under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, minors caught driving face strict penalties, including fines, community service, and a ban on obtaining a driving license until the age of 25. Vehicle owners, often parents or guardians, can also face legal action, including cancellation of the vehicle’s registration for up to one year.
Public reaction
Social media users have condemned the act, calling it a danger to public safety and a reflection of lax enforcement. Many have welcomed the police action and the punishment handed down by the Juvenile Justice Board.
As the minor begins his community service, the case serves as a warning to parents and guardians. Authorities are urging them to keep vehicle keys away from minors and to ensure that traffic rules are followed to prevent accidents and protect public safety.
