The High Court of Fiji in Suva has upheld a decision by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to issue a Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) to a taxi driver, Nirmal Chandra, who had parked his taxi near a bus stand with the engine running while waiting for passengers. Despite Mr. Chandra’s challenge to the TIN, the High Court, led by Justice Thusara Rajasinghe, found his arguments insufficient. The Magistrate Court had previously ruled in favor of the LTA, prompting Mr. Chandra to appeal.
Justice Rajasinghe concluded that parking in a location such as a bus stop with the engine running could indicate that the taxi was available for hire, thus validly constituting a traffic offense. The court underscored that the evidence presented was adequate to substantiate the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, leading to the dismissal of Mr. Chandra’s appeal.
This ruling aligns with a previous notable case involving the LTA, where a businessman, Sanjeev Reddy, successfully challenged unjust fines totaling $20,000. The magistrate in that case emphasized the importance of sufficient evidence and the need for accountability within regulatory actions. Both cases highlight the judiciary’s role in ensuring fair enforcement of traffic regulations, serving as a reminder that legal processes must protect individuals against unwarranted penalties while also upholding the law.
While Mr. Chandra’s situation reflects the complexities surrounding traffic regulations, it also illustrates the necessity for drivers to be aware of the implications of their actions on the road. It is a hopeful reminder that, regardless of the outcomes, the legal system is vigilant in addressing traffic violations for the safety and compliance of all road users.
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