Srinagar, May 29: A promotional video shared by an automobile dealer in Srinagar has sparked criticism and concern after it showed a minor boy riding a scooty, with traffic authorities promising strict action against those involved in promoting underage driving.
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The video, uploaded by an automobile seller operating under the name “Zufair Automobiles,” features a young boy riding a scooter while the dealership advertises finance facilities and vehicle sales. The clip quickly drew reactions on social media, with many users questioning how such content was openly filmed and circulated despite clear traffic laws prohibiting minors from driving motor vehicles.
Talking to Asian News Hub, SSP Traffic City Srinagar Ajaz Ahmad said strict action would be taken against those promoting such acts.
“It is not allowed to give vehicles to kids, particularly two-wheelers. We are going to take strict action against the person promoting such things,” the SSP said.
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, minors are not permitted to drive motor vehicles on public roads. While individuals aged 16 years may obtain a licence for low-capacity gearless vehicles under specific conditions and with parental consent, regular scooters and motorcycles require the rider to be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driving licence.
Traffic authorities have repeatedly warned that underage driving remains a major safety concern in Jammu and Kashmir, with officials saying minors riding vehicles without proper training, licences or supervision significantly increase the risk of accidents and fatalities.
What has particularly disturbed many observers is that the act was not merely casual negligence but was seemingly used as promotional material to attract customers online. Critics argue that such advertisements indirectly normalise underage driving and send dangerous signals to impressionable teenagers and parents alike.
Across Kashmir, underage driving has increasingly become a common sight, with school-going children frequently seen riding scooters and motorcycles, often without helmets or legal documentation. Despite repeated awareness campaigns and enforcement drives, the practice continues in several areas.
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Road safety experts believe businesses and parents alike must act responsibly instead of encouraging illegal and unsafe behaviour for publicity or commercial gain. They stress that advertisements involving minors operating vehicles undermine years of road safety messaging and weaken public awareness efforts.
