Cabinet Approves 20% Rebate On Pending Traffic Fines Under New Amnesty Scheme, Bringing Relief To Motorists

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Cabinet has voted to launch a temporary amnesty program providing up to 20% reduction on pending traffic penalties, allowing automobile owners to settle their overdue electronic challans and eliminate penalties. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis presided over the Cabinet session, which approved the Maharashtra Traffic Police Challan Amnesty Scheme-2026.

The program will unfold in three stages to motivate drivers to address outstanding fines and enhance adherence to traffic laws. Initial Phase Provides 20% Discount The first phase will grant a 20% discount on the aggregate of compoundable electronic challans issued between January 21 and October 31, 2026. The discount is available for 30 days.

Prompt Payment Discount in Second Phase In the second phase, a 20% prompt-payment discount will be extended on challans issued from November 1, 2026, onwards, as long as the vehicle owner settles the fine within 45 days of the challan being issued. This incentive will be valid for one year. Pending Court Cases Addressed The third phase will cover compoundable challans issued between January 30, 2019, and January 20, 2026, where legal proceedings against the fines are still pending in courts.

Drivers will be entitled to a 20% discount on the remaining fines for a duration of 30 days. Maharashtra Introduced "One State, One Challan" System The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 mandates penalties for motor vehicle owners and drivers who breach traffic regulations. Maharashtra initiated the "One State, One Challan" system on January 30, 2019, by issuing electronic challans to rule breakers and sending them to their registered mobile numbers.

However, the response to penalty recovery efforts has been relatively low, despite various steps taken by the traffic police. The government cited that similar discounts have been implemented in other states to boost the recovery of pending penalties and encourage compliance with traffic regulations.