Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has barred police from arresting underage students for traffic violations and expressed strong displeasure over children being handcuffed during such actions.

Separately, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has also stopped the Punjab police from detaining underage drivers, directing the inspector-general of police to first launch an awareness campaign.

The court said that minors should be warned on their first offence, with legal action to follow only if they repeat the violation.

Maryam Nawaz said parents, more than children, must play an active role in ensuring compliance with traffic rules.

“These laws are made to protect lives. People must change their habits for their own safety, and every citizen must contribute to ensuring traffic discipline,” she said.

She added that the government does not wish to arrest minors but stressed that adherence to the law is essential.

“It is not the children’s fault. We never made helmet use a habit. Parents should educate their children on the importance of helmets for road safety,” she said.

The chief minister also directed the traffic police to treat citizens respectfully and avoid misconduct.

Meanwhile, LHC Chief Justice Aalia Neelum took notice of the arrests of students on Tuesday, remarking that an awareness campaign must precede strict action.

She said minors driving motorcycles or cars should be warned on their first offence, and only repeated violations should lead to legal action.

The Punjab government has decided to issue smart cards and motorcycle driving licences to 16-year-olds under a policy.

A warning ticket will be issued for a first-time helmet violation as per the policy.

The provincial traffic police will observe a special awareness week across Punjab, with a focus on educating the public — especially students — on traffic regulations.

The use of drones and body cameras has also started for the first time to monitor traffic enforcement.