M. Prabakaran, a 29-year-old skating coach from Tiruchengode in Namakkal district, was charged by police for permitting his students to practice skating on the Salem-Namakkal National Highway, violating road safety laws.
Prabakaran, who operates a skating academy in Kannankurichi, Salem, led 12 students onto the highway near Seelanaickenpatti without proper authorization. Videos of the students skating beside moving vehicles went viral on social media, causing public alarm and leading to police action.
The Mallur police subsequently charged Prabakaran under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 268 for public nuisance, Section 283 for causing danger or obstruction in a public way, and Section 290 for punishment related to public nuisance. He also faced charges under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act for cruelty towards children.
The incident underscored the potential hazards of such activities. Authorities summoned the parents of the 12 students, issuing warnings and providing counseling on the importance of road safety and adherence to traffic regulations. The police emphasized the necessity of following legal protocols to ensure the safety of all road users, especially children.
This case instils the need for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and greater awareness among educators and parents about the importance of following legal and safety guidelines in public spaces. The authorities' prompt response aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and foster a culture of safety and responsibility.