How To File A Complaint Against Wrong Traffic Challan Issued

The complete process of contesting a wrong e-challan and a smooth guide to manage traffic fine disputes

Receiving an incorrect challan can be an annoying experience, especially when you are confident enough about following all the traffic rules. Issuance of wrong traffic challan not only causes stress but drains the financial resources too. Whether it’s a technical error, mistaken identity, or incorrect vehicle details collected, addressing such challenges promptly is essential. In this blog, we’ll guide you through e-challan basics and the process of filing a complaint against the wrong traffic challan issued. 

What Is An Online E-challan?

Traffic violators are commonly seen on Indian roads. Hence it is important to highlight the critical need for strict enforcement of traffic laws. The introduction of e-challan systems, especially via digital platforms like ‘Parivahan,’ has revolutionized how traffic violations are managed. This digital platform identifies the traffic violator and penalizes them with fines in a streamlined, systematic, and transparent manner.

The e-challan system functions through an array of several cameras that are installed at main junctions, traffic signals and other important waypoints. These cameras monitor traffic violations in real-time.

When a violation, such as jumping a red light or over-speeding, is detected, the cameras capture the vehicle’s number plate. The identified vehicle owner is then issued a digital challan, which is known as e-challan and is sent to their registered number or email address. 

What Is A Wrong E-challan?

While the e-challan system was introduced as an efficient method to regulate traffic violations, it is not entirely free from periodic errors. As the challan system depends upon automation or surveillance technology, there is always the chance of technical errors or human oversight. And there may be cases where you may receive a challan unfairly or by mistake, even if you have followed all the traffic rules. Such scenarios are known as ‘wrong e-challan.’

Such cases may happen if a camera may misinterpret a vehicle’s registration number due to unclear visuals. However, if you are confident enough of following all the rules, you can file a complaint against the wrong traffic challan issued against you. 

In the upcoming parts, we will run you down the steps of filing a complaint against the wrong e-challan.

Note: To challenge a wrong challan, you need to have solid evidence to prove your adherence to traffic rules and establish that the challan is indeed a mistake.

Steps To File A Complaint Against Wrong Traffic Challan Online 

Filing an online complaint for a wrongly issued challan is a straightforward procedure and can be done in a few simple steps: 

1. Visit the Official eChallan.parivahan.gov.in website. 

2. Click on the ‘Complaint’ tab to navigate to the Grievance System page and you’ll find the above section as given in the image.

3. Provide necessary information, such as your name, phone number, traffic challan number, and other requested details.

4. Select the specific issue you are facing with the e-Challan from the drop-down list (e.g., a wrong vehicle number or incorrect violation). It is better to explain your complaint in the specified box.

5. Once everything is filled out, click on ‘Submit’ to send your complaint.

The officials will review the submitted details through their grievance systems and provide an update on the status of your issue. 

You can complain about the wrongly issued traffic challan either by sending an email or calling the helpline number:

1. Email address: helpdesk-echallan@gov.in. It is suggested to send a detailed mail with your proof attached.

2. Helpline Number: you can call +91-120-4925505 between 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM.

3. IVRS: 4 (for eChallan-related concerns)

Note: Resolving such complaints may take up to 15 working days. You need to keep following up!

How To Track The Complaint Against Incorrect Challan?

Tracking a complaint is just as crucial as filing one. Thankfully, the e-challan system has a seamless way to track the status of your complaints. As this system is universal, both the traffic police and vehicle owners can manage and track challans from any part of the country. Here are the steps to check the status of your complaint: 

1. Visit https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in/gsticket/.

2. Click on the tab ‘Ticket Status,’ located beside the ‘Submit tab’ as shown in the image above.

3. Enter your e-ticket number or e-Challan complaint number along with the Captcha code displayed at the screen.

4. Click on ‘Check Status’ to see the latest progress on your grievance.

Additional Tips To File a Complaint Against Wrong Traffic Challan:

• It is easy for the traffic police division to investigate your e-challan complaint if you briefly give a detailed explanation of why you accept the e-challan is erroneous.

• Enclose any document that spurs your complaint and your case will be strong and well-watered to aid its defense.

• You should make photocopies of the e-Challan grievance form and the accompanying documents for future reference.

Did You Know?

Legal Considerations In e-Challan Complaints

When you receive an eChallan, you must keep the following legal considerations in mind:

1. An eChallan or any other traffic challan has to be paid within 60 days of it being issued. Please note that any complaint against the wrong traffic challan can also be lodged within that 60-day window of opportunity.

2. If you feel that you have received an incorrect e-challan, you can't refuse to pay. The correct response to this situation would be to file a complaint first. Mind you, failure to pay fines may result in a court summons or licence suspension. 

3. One should seek the services of an attorney for challans concerning offenses such as; operating under the influence of alcohol, driving without license, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if we don't pay the challan in India?

You can’t ignore a challan if it has been issued against you. You need to pay the challan within 60 days, even if you think it has been issued wrongly against you. If you fail to pay the fine on time, you can be summoned and in worst cases, your driving licence can be suspended. 

How to contest a traffic challan?

You can visit the official eChallan.parivahan.gov.in website. Then click on the ‘complaint’ tab to navigate to the Grievance System page. Enter the necessary details such as your name, phone number, and traffic challan number, select the specific issue from the e-challan drop, and click on submit. 

Can I dispute a traffic e-challan?

Yes, you have the right to challenge a traffic e-challan, if you believe it was wrongly issued to you. You’ll need to gather evidence to support your statements. The traffic authorities will review your proof and then make a decision. 

What evidence can I use to challenge an e-challan?

Evidence such as photographs, videos, witness statements, or any other relevant information can be used to support your claim. 

What are the common reasons for a wrongly issued e-challan?

There could be many reasons such as:

• Noting down the incorrect number plate

• Location and time blunders by the cameras

• Duplicate challans are being issued

What are the legal consequences of not paying challan in India?

• A constable may visit your home to collect the fine

• Court summons

• License suspension