17th May 2023, Mumbai: Mumbai Police recently imposed fines on two motorcyclists who were offering a ride to Bollywood actors Amitabh Bachchan and Anushka Sharma. The riders were found in violation of the mandatory helmet rule while riding on the city roads. Following public outcry and social media criticism, the police took action against the riders and issued fines. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and the responsibility of celebrities to set a good example for the public.
In two separate incidents, both Amitabh Bachchan and Anushka Sharma were seen riding pillion on motorcycles without helmets on Mumbai roads. Concerned citizens noticed the violation and brought it to the attention of the Mumbai Police by tagging clips of the incident on the police’s Twitter handle. Taking cognizance of the situation, the police issued challans (traffic violation tickets) against the vehicle riders, along with fines amounting to Rs. 10,500.
The Mumbai Traffic Police promptly responded to the public outcry and criticism by issuing official statements and uploading copies of the challans on their Twitter handle. The challans were issued under Section 129/194(D), Section 5/180, and Section 3(1)181 of the Motor Vehicles Act. The police confirmed that the fines had been paid by the offenders, emphasising their commitment to enforcing traffic regulations regardless of the individuals
Amitabh Bachchan, the megastar of Bollywood, had recently shared pictures of himself riding pillion on a motorbike amidst city traffic. Unfortunately, both Bachchan and the rider were seen without helmets in the pictures. This led to public criticism, prompting the Mumbai Police to address the matter. In response, the police issued a challan against the vehicle rider, accompanied by a fine of Rs. 1,000, which was duly paid by the offender.
Anushka Sharma, a popular Bollywood actress, was also spotted riding pillion on a motorbike without a helmet. Netizens quickly noticed the violation and expressed their concerns on social media platforms. The Mumbai Police, after receiving multiple reports and tags on their Twitter handle, took immediate action. An official challan was issued against the vehicle rider, imposing a fine of Rs. 10,500, which was subsequently paid by the offender.
The Mumbai Police’s swift response and enforcement of the law demonstrate their commitment to maintaining road safety and holding everyone accountable, regardless of their celebrity status. Such actions serve as a reminder to the public, including celebrities, about the need to prioritise safety while travelling on the roads.
By: Tanya Chantola