Talking on phone while driving soon to be legal in India, says Nitin Gadkari

The Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has stated that government will soon legalise talking on the phone while driving in India. However, there will be some rules that must be followed, the Union Minister said in the Lok Sabha. According to Gadkari's statement, talking on the phone will only be permitted if the phone is connected to a hands-free device and the phone should be kept in the pocket rather than in the car. In case the traffic police stop you and issue a challan then one can challenge it in a court of law. Prior to this, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had stated in September that mobile phones can be used in vehicles solely for route navigation, without impairing the driver's concentration. Also Read | Haryana lifts all Covid-19 restrictions “If the driver is using a hands-free device and talking on the phone, then it will not be considered as a punishable offence. In such a situation, the traffic police cannot impose any fine, if he does then one can challenge it in the court of law," said Gadkari. Notably, if one is using a mobile phone and talking on it without any hands-free device, the traffic police can cut a challan. Meanwhile, Banglore police in September 2021, had announced that they will be issuing challans to people who are caught using mobile phones in any way, including using earphones for calls or music. The fine amount was set to Rs. 1,000, however, it could be increased as per the violation done by the driver. Also Read | SBI hikes interest rates on long-term FDs, details inside -PTC News