Kerala High Court Enforces Precise Air Blank Test for Breathalyser Use in Drunken Driving Cases

Speedy Summary:

• Kerala High Court directed the Director General of Police to ensure police officers conduct an ‘air blank test’ on breathalyser devices before testing individuals for drunken driving.
• an ‘air blank test’ ensures the device is calibrated at zero and unaffected by residual alcohol from previous tests.
• Justice V.G.Arun quashed a case against Saran Kumar S.,a two-wheeler rider,due to improper calibration in his breathalyser test during his arrest in December 2024 in Thiruvananthapuram.
• Mr. Kumar’s counsel argued the device showed a blank test reading of 412 mg/100 ml,indicating improper calibration before his sample was taken.
• The court ruled there was no sufficient evidence regarding Mr. Kumar’s blood alcohol level as no separate medical exam was conducted, making prosecution for driving under influence futile.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The Kerala High Court’s ruling emphasizes procedural integrity in law enforcement practices related to drunken driving cases. mandating accurate calibration through an ‘air blank test’ ensures that citizens are treated fairly and technology is used responsibly without room for error or misuse. This decision highlights the importance of evidence-based investigations while safeguarding individual rights.

The broader implication could be enhanced accountability among law enforcement agencies across India when using similar devices, potentially setting new standards for handling allegations of impaired driving. The move aligns with global best practices but may require complete training at the grassroots level for consistent implementation statewide.

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