Not ‘fine’ for cops to flout traffic rules

Cop whose photo went viral driving sans helmet and on phone is fined

Ahmedabad Traffic Police on Thursday set an example by penalising one of their own personnel for flouting traffic rules even as Gujarat government mulls implementation of the amended Motor Vehicles Act which will exponentially increase the amount payable as fine.

The traffic police issued a challan of Rs 1,100 to Vishwas Jayant Rathod, a Gram Rakshak Dal whose photo went viral on social media after a user asked the police what action it would take against one of their own personnel for flouting rules so blatantly.

In the photo, Rathod is seen driving amotorcycle without wearing a helmet and also speaking on his mobile phone.

The police took cognisance as well as action in the matter. Tejas Patel, DCP (admin) of traffic, said, “The number plate of the personnel’s bike was clearly visible in the photo uploaded by the citizen.

We took action as per the law. He was fined Rs1,000 for rash driving and Rs 100 for driving without a helmet.” DCP added, “The police cannot be spared from the rules. Everyone who breaks the rules will be penalised. Nobody is above the law.”