Getting a traffic challan is frustrating, but receiving one that’s wrongly issued is even worse. Whether it’s a case of mistaken identity, duplicate challan, or technical error, you have the right to contest it. This comprehensive guide explains exactly how to file a complaint against a wrongly issued traffic challan and get it resolved.
What is a Wrong Traffic Challan?
A wrong traffic challan occurs when you receive a penalty notice for a traffic violation you didn’t commit. Common scenarios include:
- Challan issued for a vehicle you don’t own or at a location you never visited
- Duplicate challan for the same offense
- Incorrect vehicle registration number
- Technical errors in automated camera systems
- Challan issued after selling your vehicle
- Wrong violation code or amount
Why You Should Challenge Wrong Traffic Challans
Ignoring a wrongly issued challan can lead to serious consequences. Unpaid challans can result in increased penalties, difficulty in vehicle registration renewal, and potential legal complications. More importantly, accepting a wrong challan means paying for something you didn’t do and allowing an error to remain on your driving record.
Steps To File A Complaint Against Wrong Traffic Challan
Step 1: Verify the Challan Details
Before filing a complaint, confirm that the challan is indeed wrong by checking:
- Date, time, and location of the alleged violation
- Vehicle registration number
- Violation type and amount
- Issuing authority details
You can verify your challan online through:
- Parivahan Sewa portal (parivahan.gov.in)
- State transport department websites
- E-Challan official website (echallan.parivahan.gov.in)
- Mobile apps like mParivahan or DigiLocker
Step 2: Gather Supporting Evidence
Collect documentation to prove the challan is wrong:
- Vehicle registration certificate (RC) showing correct details
- Proof of vehicle location (GPS records, parking receipts, toll receipts)
- Photos or videos showing your vehicle wasn’t at the violation location
- Service records if your vehicle was in the garage
- Sale deed if you sold the vehicle before the violation date
- Insurance records
- Any other relevant documentation
Step 3: File Online Complaint
Most states now offer online complaint mechanisms:
Through E-Challan Portal:
- Visit the official e-challan website for your state
- Enter your challan number or vehicle details
- Look for “Contest Challan” or “File Complaint” option
- Upload supporting documents
- Submit your complaint with detailed explanation
- Save the complaint acknowledgment number
Through Parivahan Portal:
- Go to parivahan.gov.in
- Navigate to “Online Services”
- Select “Check Challan Status”
- Enter vehicle and challan details
- Use the dispute resolution option
- Upload evidence and submit
Step 4: File Offline Complaint
If online options aren’t available or you prefer in-person submission:
- Visit the issuing traffic police station with:
- Original challan copy
- Vehicle RC and driving license
- Supporting evidence documents
- Written complaint letter
- Write a formal complaint letter including:
- Your name and contact details
- Vehicle registration number
- Challan number and date
- Clear explanation of why the challan is wrong
- Request for cancellation
- List of enclosed documents
- Submit to the appropriate authority:
- Traffic police station
- RTO office
- Transport commissioner’s office
- Obtain acknowledgment with date and reference number
Step 5: Follow Up on Your Complaint
After filing your complaint:
- Note down your complaint reference number
- Track status online if the facility is available
- Follow up after 7-10 days if no response
- Contact the grievance cell if needed
- Escalate to senior officers if the initial complaint is ignored
Alternative Complaint Channels
Consumer Forums
If your complaint isn’t resolved by traffic authorities, you can approach:
- District Consumer Forum for amounts up to ₹1 crore
- File online through the National Consumer Helpline portal
RTI Application
File a Right to Information application to:
- Get details about the challan issuance process
- Obtain camera footage or evidence used
- Understand the verification process followed
Judicial Magistrate Court
For serious cases or if administrative complaints fail:
- File a petition before the judicial magistrate
- Present your evidence in court
- Seek quashing of the wrongly issued challan
Grievance Portals
- CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System)
- State transport department grievance cells
- CM/Governor grievance portals for your state
State-Specific Complaint Procedures
Delhi
- Online: Delhi Traffic Police website (delhitrafficpolice.nic.in)
- Email: cp-traffic@delhipolice.gov.in
- Phone: 011-23490045, 23490049
Mumbai (Maharashtra)
- Online: Mumbai Traffic Police portal
- Email: traffic.mumbai@mahapolice.gov.in
- Visit: Traffic headquarters, CST
Bangalore (Karnataka)
- Online: Bangalore Traffic Police website
- Email: blrtrafficbangaloretrafficpolice@kar.nic.in
- Phone: 080-22868444
Other States
Check your state transport department website for specific procedures and contact details.
Common Reasons for Wrong Challans and Solutions
Number Plate Misreading by Cameras
Solution: Provide clear photographs of your vehicle’s number plate and documentation showing the correct registration number.
Vehicle Sold but Challan in Your Name
Solution: Submit the vehicle sale agreement, NOC, and Form 29 & 30 showing transfer of ownership.
At Two Places at Same Time
Solution: Provide GPS data, toll receipts, parking tickets, or any evidence proving your vehicle’s actual location.
Technical Glitches
Solution: Request the authority to verify their automated system records and camera footage.
Timeline for Complaint Resolution
- Online complaints: 7-15 days typically
- Offline complaints: 15-30 days
- Consumer forum: 3-6 months
- Court proceedings: 6 months to 1 year
Tips for Successful Complaint Resolution
- Act promptly – File complaints immediately after receiving a wrong challan
- Be specific – Clearly state why the challan is wrong with factual details
- Document everything – Keep copies of all submissions and communications
- Be professional – Maintain a respectful tone in all interactions
- Follow up regularly – Don’t assume your complaint is being processed
- Keep digital records – Maintain photos, screenshots, and digital receipts
- Know your rights – Understand traffic laws and your legal rights as a vehicle owner
What If Your Complaint is Rejected?
If your initial complaint is rejected:
- Request written reasons for rejection
- File an appeal with higher authorities
- Approach the transport commissioner’s office
- Consider legal recourse through consumer forum or court
- Seek help from traffic lawyers for complex cases
Prevention: Avoid Wrong Challans in Future
- Ensure your vehicle’s number plate is clearly visible and not damaged
- Update RTO records immediately after selling or purchasing a vehicle
- Keep your vehicle documents updated
- Register for SMS/email alerts for challan notifications
- Regularly check for challans on official portals
- Maintain digital records of your travels for evidence if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my vehicle while the complaint is pending? Yes, you can continue driving, but it’s advisable to carry proof of your complaint submission.
Will I get a refund if I’ve already paid a wrong challan? Yes, if your complaint is successful, you can request a refund through the same portal or authority.
How long do I have to contest a traffic challan? Generally, you should contest within 60 days of challan issuance, though this may vary by state.
Can I get a lawyer for traffic challan disputes? Yes, you can hire a traffic lawyer, especially for court proceedings, though it’s not mandatory for administrative complaints.
Conclusion
Filing a complaint against a wrongly issued traffic challan is your legal right and an important step in ensuring justice. With the availability of online portals and clear grievance mechanisms, the process has become more accessible. Remember to gather strong evidence, file your complaint promptly, and follow up diligently. Don’t let a wrong challan affect your driving record or lead to unnecessary penalties – take action and get it resolved through the proper channels.
By understanding the complaint process and your rights as a vehicle owner, you can successfully contest wrong traffic challans and contribute to a more accurate and fair traffic enforcement system.