03 June,2026 07:11 PM IST | Guwahati | mid-day online correspondent
Assam BJP MLA Bhupen Borah proposed stricter penalties for people caught riding without helmets. Representational Pic/File/iStock
BJP MLA Bhupen Borah, who represents the Bihpuria Assembly constituency in Assam, has called on the state government and police to take tougher action against riders who travel without helmets, reported the PTI.
His appeal comes after a series of fatal motorcycle accidents involving young people in his constituency.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Borah expressed concern over the growing number of road deaths among youths and said stronger enforcement was needed to improve road safety, the news agency reported.
The MLA said several families in the Tikira area have recently suffered heartbreaking losses due to motorcycle accidents.
According to Borah, three young men from the region have died in separate accidents, while another remains in critical condition and is fighting for his life.
He said the repeated incidents have created fear and distress among local residents.
According to the PTI, Borah pointed out that many of the affected families come from economically weaker backgrounds.
He also noted that traditional customs and rituals observed by the Mising community following accidental deaths often involve significant expenses, placing an additional financial burden on grieving families.
The MLA said local BJP workers have been helping affected households, but stressed that prevention remains the best solution.
To reduce reckless driving, Borah suggested that the state government consider introducing speed restrictions for motorcycles, particularly for riders aged between 19 and 25.
He said commercial vehicles already operate under speed regulations and argued that similar measures could help improve safety among younger riders, as per the PTI.
According to him, limiting vehicle speed could reduce the likelihood of serious accidents caused by overspeeding.
The MLA also announced plans to hold discussions with police officials in Bihpuria to strengthen enforcement against traffic violations.
He proposed stricter penalties for people caught riding without helmets.
"Those riding motorcycles without helmets must be penalised strictly. Apart from the existing fines, police stations should be empowered to seize such motorcycles for one month," he said, reported the PTI.
Borah questioned how riders continue to ignore helmet rules despite repeated awareness campaigns and existing legal provisions.
He said stricter enforcement, along with greater public discipline, is necessary to prevent further loss of life on Assam's roads.
The MLA emphasised that improving road safety should be a priority in order to protect young people and reduce avoidable tragedies.
(with PTI inputs)
