Challan hardly a deterrent for city’s fast and the furious

Bikers have become commonplace on Delhi’s streets, challenging the police who are often either mute spectators or issue challans — hardly a deterrent to these desperate law-breakers.

Bikers have become commonplace on Delhi’s streets, challenging the police who are often either mute spectators or issue challans — hardly a deterrent to these desperate law-breakers.

HT Image

The police said earlier young boys used to come out in hordes on city roads only during some festivals. But now they are being spotted daily especially in the New Delhi area comprising India Gate, Connaught Place and the Lutyens’ zone.

Delhi Police admitted that the menace is growing fast and on certain occasions, they refrain from taking action as the matter can take a communal turn. “New Delhi is a favourite spot for bikers as the area has comparatively lesser traffic during night and the roads are good. Nowadays we have to stop them from entering India Gate area but since there are so many entry and exit points to the hexagon, the bikers manage to create ruckus. We issue challan and seize their bikes but that hardly acts as a deterrent,” said a senior police officer.

On a certain religious occasion, Delhi Police prepare in advance and put up barricades at several points across the city. “But you can’t turn the whole city into an impregnable fortress every day. These bikers operate in groups of hundreds and perform stunts,” the officer said.

“If we start following them, they start driving even more rashly, posing a danger to others,” said a senior police officer.