Pune: Threats, Bribes, and Receipts That Never Came – A Student’s Harrowing Encounter with Wakad Traffic Police
Wakad, 6th January 2025: A disturbing complaint has surfaced, shedding light on alleged corrupt practices by a traffic police officer at the Wakad Traffic Division near Wakad Bridge. A student, claiming financial hardship, has lodged a formal email complaint with the Pimpri Chinchwad Police and shared the same with Punekar News. The complaint highlights coercion, bribery, and a lack of transparency in law enforcement procedures.
The Incident
The student narrated the incident, which occurred on Sunday, January 5, 2025, around 11 a.m. The student, while riding a motorcycle near Wakad Bridge, was stopped by a traffic police officer. Despite possessing a valid driving license and a vehicle fitness certificate, the officer pointed out that the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate and insurance had expired, deeming the student liable for a fine of ₹4,500.
Unable to pay the fine immediately, the student requested time to renew the documents and arrange the required amount. However, the officer insisted on seizing the motorcycle unless the student paid a reduced amount of ₹700 in cash on the spot. The student was directed to a nearby store to withdraw the cash, incurring an additional ₹70 in transaction fees.
Upon returning to the traffic department, the officer allegedly accepted the ₹700 in cash in a secluded area without issuing any official receipt. The student also claimed to have witnessed similar transactions involving other individuals, suggesting systemic corruption.
Evidence Provided
The student attached evidence, including:
- A screenshot of the ₹770 transaction made at the nearby store.
- A detailed account of the incident.
These documents were submitted to the police and shared with Punekar News.
The Student’s Concerns
The complaint highlighted the following concerns:
- The officer’s demand for immediate cash payments without issuing receipts violates legal procedures.
- The student felt coerced into paying the bribe under the threat of vehicle seizure, exposing the vulnerability of individuals in similar situations.
- Such practices damage public trust in law enforcement and harm the reputation of the police force.
Demands for Action
The student has requested authorities to take the following steps:
- Investigate the Incident: Review footage and records from the Wakad Traffic Department near Wakad Bridge to identify the officer and verify the claims of unauthorized cash transactions.
- Disciplinary Measures: Take strict action against the officer to address and deter such behavior.
- Preventive Oversight: Strengthen measures to ensure fines and penalties are processed transparently through official channels.
Police Response Pending
When contacted, Police Inspector Sunil Pinjan, in charge of the Wakad Traffic Division, stated that he was unaware of the issue but would look into the matter. DCP (Traffic) Bapu Bangar assured that the incident would be investigated and necessary action would be taken.
A Call for Transparency
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ethical conduct among law enforcement officers. Citizens and organizations alike have urged authorities to act decisively, ensuring that corrupt practices are rooted out to restore public trust.
For further updates, stay tuned to Punekar News.
