Two-wheeler riders and commuters using small cars call for stricter enforcement against reckless driving

Rajasthan's recent crackdown on so-called "VIP culture" has drawn attention for its sweeping enforcement actions, yet critics argue that it fails to address a more pressing issue: the alarming lack of road safety in the state. Over 142,000 vehicles have been fined within three weeks, targeting practices such as tinted windows, unauthorized license plates, and excessive use of horns. While these measures aim to curb perceived privileges of high-profile individuals, incidents involving ordinary citizens highlight a deeper problem—one where road safety is compromised due to the prioritization of VIP movements.

One such incident occurred on June 19 when police officers clearing the way for Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma’s convoy reportedly overturned a momo cart on Mahal Road in Jagatpura. The cart belonged to sisters Reshu Gupta and Khushboo Gupta, whose father had died during the pandemic. After losing their father, the family moved to Jaipur, where both sisters pursued higher education before taking up the momo cart business to support their mother. According to the vendors, the police did not heed their plea to wait as the cart contained boiling water, leading to severe burns on Reshu.

This incident sparked criticism from opposition parties, questioning how a government could genuinely combat VIP culture while allowing such disruptions to occur. In response, the state government assured financial assistance for Reshu's medical treatment and offered a dairy booth permit to the family. Additionally, the police officials involved were transferred. Despite these steps, concerns remain about the broader implications of VIP-related road management.

Since Chief Minister Sharma took office in December 2023, there were initial efforts to ease traffic conditions by stopping at traffic signals and minimizing public inconvenience. However, following a serious accident in December 2024 where a speeding taxi collided with the chief minister’s convoy, resulting in fatalities, security measures became more stringent. Consequently, road closures and diversions have become commonplace, affecting not only the chief minister but also other dignitaries and political figures visiting the state.

These changes have significantly impacted daily commuters, who now face prolonged waits for VIP passage. The symbolic weight of the momo cart incident lies in its demonstration that VIP culture extends beyond superficial indicators like loud horns or flashy license plates. Instead, it reflects an underlying assumption that the needs of a select few can override the well-being and livelihoods of many.

Beyond Rajasthan, similar issues persist elsewhere in India. In Kerala, two-wheeler riders and commuters have voiced concerns about reckless driving by larger vehicles. Karthika Bipin, a regular scooter rider in Thiruvananthapuram, recounted a harrowing experience when a private bus nearly hit her and her younger sister. She emphasized the need for greater respect for female riders, noting that dismissive attitudes among male drivers contribute to unsafe road environments.

Aswath M. Krishna, another commuter, highlighted the growing trend of aggressive driving, particularly by SUVs, which often intimidate smaller vehicles. City taxi driver Satheesh pointed out that weak enforcement allows such behavior to flourish, increasing maintenance costs and reducing earnings for drivers. These observations underscore a systemic failure in ensuring road safety for all users.

Experts stress that road safety improvements require strict adherence to speed limits, especially near sensitive areas like schools and hospitals. Arun Chandran, a principal scientist specializing in traffic engineering, noted that while speed detection technologies exist, their effective use remains a challenge. He advocated for clearer signage and mandatory annual checks for commercial vehicles to ensure they meet safety standards.

Authorities in Kerala have implemented measures such as speed radar cameras and restricted entry times for heavy vehicles to manage traffic flow and enhance safety. Assistant Commissioner of Police Suresh Kumar confirmed that these initiatives are in place, though commuters insist that stronger enforcement and improved road discipline are essential for creating a safer environment, particularly for vulnerable road users like women and children. As discussions continue, the need for comprehensive reforms in road safety governance becomes ever more apparent.