Delhi Police arrest 21‑year‑old after a viral clip shows him zigzagging through traffic on NH‑48, with the SUV seized. The incident, captured on a smartphone and shared across social media, prompted a swift police response that culminated in the arrest of Daud Ansari and the impounding of his black Scorpio‑N. The case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Motor Vehicles Act at Samaypur Badli police station.
Background/Context
NH‑48, a major arterial route connecting Delhi to the national capital region, is notorious for heavy traffic and frequent accidents. The GT Karnal Bypass, a stretch of this highway, sees an average of 12,000 vehicles daily, with 1,200 vehicles entering the bypass each hour during peak times. According to the Delhi Traffic Police, the bypass recorded 45 serious incidents in the last quarter of 2025, many involving reckless driving.
In this climate of congestion, a 21‑year‑old driver’s reckless maneuvering—zigzagging between lanes at speeds exceeding 80 km/h—posed a grave risk to commuters. The viral video, posted on X (formerly Twitter) by an anonymous user, showed the driver’s vehicle weaving through traffic, narrowly avoiding collisions. The clip quickly amassed over 200,000 views, sparking public outrage and calls for action.
Key Developments
On January 18, 2026, Delhi Police received the video and immediately dispatched a team to the GT Karnal Bypass. Within minutes, officers located the black Scorpio‑N, identified as registered to Musafir Ansari, and apprehended the driver, Daud Ansari, a 21‑year‑old student of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). The vehicle was seized and the driver was taken into custody for further investigation.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, responding to the incident on X, confirmed that an FIR had been registered under the BNS and the Motor Vehicles Act. She added, “A case has been registered under BNS and Motor Vehicle Act at Samaypur Badli police station. Offending vehicle Scorpio has been seized. Driver has been arrested who is a student of IGNOU.”
Police spokesperson, Inspector Rajesh Kumar, stated, “The incident occurred between 3 pm and 4 pm on January 18. The manner in which the vehicle was being driven posed a grave risk to commuters. The offending SUV has been impounded as per legal provisions and further investigation into the matter is underway.”
- Arrested individual: Daud Ansari, 21, Okhla resident, IGNOU student.
- Vehicle: Black Scorpio‑N, registered to father Musafir Ansari.
- Legal action: FIR under BNS (rash and negligent acts endangering human life) and Motor Vehicles Act.
- Impounded vehicle: Scorpio‑N seized at Samaypur Badli police station.
Impact Analysis
For Delhi’s commuters, the incident underscores the dangers of reckless driving on congested highways. According to the Delhi Traffic Police, 78% of accidents on NH‑48 involve driver negligence, with 35% attributed to speeding or lane violations. The viral video’s rapid spread highlights the role of social media in holding drivers accountable and prompting law enforcement action.
Students, particularly those studying at institutions like IGNOU, may find the case relevant. The driver’s status as a student raises questions about the pressures of balancing academic commitments with safe driving practices. The incident serves as a cautionary tale for young drivers who may underestimate the consequences of risky behavior on public roads.
Moreover, the swift police response demonstrates the effectiveness of real‑time monitoring and community reporting. The Delhi Police’s use of video evidence to identify and apprehend the offender sets a precedent for future cases involving social media‑documented incidents.
Expert Insights/Tips
Traffic safety experts emphasize that the most effective way to prevent accidents on highways like NH‑48 is to adhere to speed limits and maintain lane discipline. Dr. Meera Patel, a traffic engineer at the National Institute of Road Safety, advises:
“When you’re driving on a busy bypass, keep a safe distance, avoid sudden lane changes, and never let the temptation of a quick shortcut override your sense of responsibility. Remember, a single moment of distraction can cost lives.”
For students and young drivers, the following practical tips can help mitigate risks:
- Plan your route in advance and allow extra time for traffic.
- Use navigation apps that provide real‑time traffic updates.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Adhere strictly to speed limits, especially on congested stretches.
- Keep your vehicle’s lights, brakes, and tires in good condition.
- Report any suspicious or dangerous driving you witness to authorities.
Law enforcement officials also recommend that drivers familiarize themselves with the legal consequences of reckless driving. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, penalties can include fines, suspension of driving license, and even imprisonment for repeated offenses.
Looking Ahead
The Delhi Police’s decisive action in this case is likely to prompt a broader review of traffic enforcement on NH‑48. Authorities are expected to increase patrols on the GT Karnal Bypass and deploy additional speed cameras to deter dangerous driving. The police have also announced plans to collaborate with social media platforms to flag and report videos depicting hazardous road behavior.
In the long term, the incident may influence policy discussions around driver education. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has hinted at launching a nationwide “Safe Driving” campaign targeting young drivers, with a focus on digital literacy and responsible use of mobile devices while driving.
For students and commuters, staying informed about traffic regulations and adopting safe driving habits will be crucial. The Delhi Police’s swift response serves as a reminder that the law is vigilant and that reckless behavior will not go unnoticed.
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