MP proposes bill to criminalize dangerous driving under Penal Code

A new bill has been introduced in Parliament seeking to classify dangerous and reckless driving as a criminal offense under the Penal Code.

The proposal, submitted by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, aims to amend Section 121 of the Penal Code to explicitly include reckless and dangerous operation of motor vehicles as punishable conduct.

MP Meekail explained that the current legal framework’s omission of dangerous driving under reckless and intimidating offenses has created difficulties in pursuing legal action following road accidents.

At present, the Penal Code addresses incidents resulting in death or injury caused by dangerous driving. Meanwhile, the Road Traffic Act penalizes dangerous driving that does not result in fatality or property damage with fines or license suspensions.

This legislative move follows a tragic incident in the capital, where a 17-year-old boy lost his life and two others sustained serious injuries in a recent traffic accident.

The bill seeks to close legal gaps and enhance road safety enforcement by holding reckless drivers accountable through the criminal justice system.