Drink & Drive: A Punishable Offence In India – Laws One Should Know
Motor Vehicle Act 1988
Drink and Drive is a punishable offense in India and is considered illegal. According to Section 185 of the Motor Vehicle Act 1988, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is punishable in India.
Alcohol Limit
The alcohol limit is set to 0.03% per 100 ml of blood. If you are caught with more than 30 mg of alcohol or drug in the blood sample then it is an offence.
First Time Offence
If you are caught driving in drunk condition for the first time then, it could be punishable under six months of jail and a fine of Rs 10,000.
Repeated Offence
But, if it is a second offense then you will be fined Rs 15,000 and repeated mistakes could lead to cancellation of your driving license.
What comes under the Act?
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, penalties are applicable on all types of vehicles, including two-wheelers, cars and commercial.
Legal Age
The legal age for drinking in India varies across states. In Goa, Himachal Pradesh, and Karnataka the minimum age is 18, while in states like Delhi, Maharashtra and Haryana, the limit is set to 25 years. Whereas, 21 years is the legal age in Assam, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal.
Where Alcohol is Banned?
Bihar, Mizoram, Gujarat and Nagaland have imposed to complete ban on alcohol.