Sat May 31 17:21:40 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Karnataka’s new State police chief, M.A. Saleem, has issued directives to police personnel across the state to limit random vehicle checks due to safety concerns. This decision follows two incidents where individuals were either killed or injured while trying to avoid such checks, and another incident where a constable was killed by a speeding vehicle during a check. The directive emphasizes focusing on visible violations, using reflective measures for traffic stops, prohibiting dangerous enforcement tactics, and promoting contactless enforcement where possible. It also mandates the use of safety equipment for police personnel during checks.
**News Article:**

**Karnataka Police Chief Orders Curb on Random Vehicle Checks Following Safety Concerns**

**Bengaluru, May 31, 2025** – In a move aimed at enhancing public safety, Karnataka’s newly appointed State police chief, M.A. Saleem, has issued a directive instructing police personnel across the state to significantly reduce random vehicle checks. The order, released today, comes in the wake of several recent incidents involving injuries and fatalities linked to attempts to evade such checks.

Mr. Saleem cited two specific instances: the death of a toddler and the injury of a couple in Mandya on May 26, both resulting from efforts to avoid police checks, and the death of a constable in Davangere on May 13, who was struck by a speeding vehicle while attempting to stop it during a random check. The police chief emphasized that in these situations, necessary safety precautions were not taken, endangering both the public and law enforcement officers.

Under the new guidelines, officers are instructed to prioritize addressing visible traffic violations and avoid aggressive tactics when stopping speeding vehicles. “We must focus on clear infractions and ensure the safety of all citizens,” stated Mr. Saleem in the directive.

Specific measures outlined in the order include:

* **Reflective Safety:** Requiring the use of reflective rubber cones placed 100-150 meters ahead of checkpoints to provide ample warning to drivers.
* **Prohibited Tactics:** Banning the use of zigzag barricades, physically pulling riders from vehicles, and confiscating vehicle keys.
* **Highway Protocol:** Limiting the use of “nakabandi” (roadblocks) on highways and enlisting the assistance of traffic police when necessary.
* **Officer Safety:** Mandating the use of reflective jackets and LED batons during checks, especially during evenings and nights. Compulsory wearing of body worn cameras during physical vehicle inspection and carrying drives in well-lit areas.
* **Contactless Enforcement:** Prioritizing the use of registration number tracking and informing control rooms instead of chasing vehicles. Utilizing Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS) in zones where they are available.

Mr. Saleem underscored the importance of adapting to modern traffic management techniques and leveraging technology to ensure both effective enforcement and the safety of the public and police officers. The directive is effective immediately and is expected to be strictly enforced across the state.

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