Guwahati, June 3: BJP MLA from Assam’s Bihpuria Assembly constituency Bhupen Borah on Wednesday urged the Assam government and police to adopt stricter measures against helmetless riders, including imposing fines and seizing motorcycles for up to one month, following a series of fatal road accidents involving youths in his constituency.
Speaking to reporters, the legislator expressed concern over the rising number of deaths caused by motorcycle accidents, particularly among young people in Assam. He said several families in the Tikira region under his constituency have recently suffered tragic losses. “Three youths from our area have lost their lives in motorcycle accidents, while another youth is currently battling for life in a critical condition,” Borah said.
He stated that the recurring accidents have created deep distress among local residents and pointed out that many affected families belong to economically weaker sections. According to the MLA, the traditional customs and rituals of the Mising community following accidental deaths often involve huge expenditures, placing an additional burden on bereaved families.
Borah said local BJP workers have been trying to extend support to the affected households, but stressed that stronger preventive measures are necessary to curb such incidents in the future. The MLA suggested that Assam should consider introducing speed restrictions for motorcycles, especially for riders between the ages of 19 and 25. Drawing comparisons with speed regulations imposed on commercial vehicles, he said similar limitations could help reduce reckless driving among youths.
He also announced that he would hold discussions with the police administration in Bihpuria to strengthen enforcement against traffic violations. “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.
Borah questioned how young riders without helmets could continue to move freely despite repeated awareness campaigns and legal provisions. He added that stricter enforcement and public discipline are essential to prevent further loss of lives on Assam’s roads. The BJP MLA’s remarks come amid increasing concern over road safety and rising fatalities involving two-wheelers across the state. –IANS tdr/rad
