CM hints at scrapping helmet rule, Prakash shoots it down

CM hints at scrapping helmet rule, Prakash shoots it down
New Indian Express

MYSORE: Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's statement on Friday that the State Government may withdraw compulsory wearing of helmets was contradicted by Home Minister M P Prakash, who said there was no question of going against the High Court orders directing compulsory use of helmets in city corporations.

Kumaraswamy, who said a decision to scrap the helmet rule is likely to be officially announced after the by-election to the Chamundeshwari constituency, added that the Government will respond public opinion, particularly the “anguish” expressed against the compulsory use of helmet.

Ruling out scrapping the rule, Prakash said the court verdict came in light of the Nimhans report which said use of helmets reduced fatalities in road accidents.

Moreover, he said, the Union Government has brought an amendment to Central Motor Vehicles Act directing use of helmets compulsorily.

Prakash said people opposing the helmet rule have not filed objections before the government and clarified that the previous S M Krishna government had exempted use of helmets in Bellary.

He said the police will be orally instructed not to penalise people till the helmets are easily available.

Eleven more police stations: Prakash said the government has decided to open 11 more police stations in Shimoga, Bellary and Naxal effected areas and has sought additional funds from the Centre for the modernisation of police force.

He said 400 policemen will be recruited for the security of Vidhana Soudha, Vikasa Soudha, Legislators' Home and Raj Bhavan.