A Hyderabad police officer has been suspended and faces criminal charges after a video allegedly showing his minor granddaughter driving a car on a busy public road went viral on social media. The incident, which reportedly took place on the Gandhamguda–Bairagiguda road under the Narsingi Police Station limits, triggered widespread criticism and renewed concerns over road safety and responsible driving.
According to news agency ANI, the Cyberabad Traffic Police have registered a case against the officer, identified as Pujari Thirupathi, while the Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) has ordered his suspension and initiated a departmental enquiry.
Viral video sparks outrage over minor driving on public road
The incident came to light after a video circulated widely on social media, allegedly showing the police officer allowing his minor granddaughter to drive a car on a busy stretch of road.
Reports suggest the vehicle caused traffic congestion, prompting local residents to object to the situation. Instead of immediately stopping the child from driving, the officer allegedly defended his actions, further fuelling public outrage.
The incident has once again highlighted the legal and safety risks associated with allowing minors to operate motor vehicles on public roads.
Cyberabad Traffic Police register case against officer
According to ANI, the Cyberabad Traffic Police confirmed that a criminal case has been registered against the officer.
In a post on X, the department said: "In connection with the reported issue, a case has been registered under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and Sections 184 and 180 of the Motor Vehicles Act against Pujari Thirupathi for permitting a minor to drive the vehicle in Narsingi Police Station limits. Further investigation is in progress."
The investigation is continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Telangana DGP orders suspension and departmental enquiry
Following the public backlash, Telangana Director General of Police CV Anand directed the Cyberabad Police Commissioner to take disciplinary action against the officer.
According to ANI, the DGP stated on X: "The DGP has asked the CP Cyberabad to suspend the concerned officer and start a departmental enquiry on this indiscretion."
The departmental enquiry will examine whether the officer violated service rules and whether any further disciplinary measures are warranted.
What the law says about allowing minors to drive
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, permitting a minor to drive a motor vehicle on a public road is a punishable offence.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that underage driving significantly increases the risk of road accidents and can result in criminal liability for the owner or guardian who permits the offence.
Road safety experts also stress that minors generally lack the legal eligibility, training and experience required to safely operate vehicles in public traffic.
Separate incident: ACP's wife found dead at Hyderabad residence
In a separate development, the wife of a Hyderabad police officer was found dead at her residence in the Alwal area of Medchal-Malkajgiri district.
According to ANI, the deceased has been identified as Hemalatha, whose husband Chandrashekar is serving as an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in the Charminar division.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday evening at the family's residence in Brundhavan Colony.
Police launch investigation into woman's death
According to ANI, officials from the Alwal Police Station said Hemalatha was found hanging from a ceiling fan inside the house.
An official stated: "This incident happened yesterday evening. The deceased has been identified as Hemalatha. She was found dead by hanging from a ceiling fan at her residence. Her husband, Chandrashekar, is working as an ACP in Charminar, Hyderabad."
Police reached the scene after receiving information about the incident, completed preliminary procedures and shifted the body for a post-mortem examination.
Officials said an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the death, and further inquiries are in progress.
Inputs from ANI
