Helmet Mandatory for Government Employees: No Entry Without Helmet, Police Action If Violated

The Gujarat government has issued a new circular following the Ahmedabad Police Commissioner’s decision to ban entry into offices without helmets. As of October 19, 2024, all government employees are now required to wear helmets. Those arriving at government offices on two-wheelers without a helmet will not be allowed entry. This applies not only to drivers but also to passengers riding on the back. If necessary, police will be assigned to ensure compliance at office premises.

Importance of Helmet Compliance for Safety

The circular issued by the state government highlights the rising number of road accidents, injuries, and fatalities across Gujarat, stressing the need for road safety, public awareness, and adherence to traffic rules. Wearing helmets, in addition to being a legal requirement, serves as a vital protection measure, reducing the risk of serious injury and death in the event of an accident. Government employees and officials are encouraged to take responsibility for following these rules, ensuring the use of standard helmets while operating two-wheelers for personal safety.

Legal Obligation Under the Motor Vehicle Act

Under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler is mandatory. In accordance with this law, the state government has now mandated that all employees, officials, and staff members arriving at government offices on two-wheelers must wear helmets that meet safety standards. This rule applies to both the driver and any passenger riding with them. Entry into government office premises will be restricted for those who fail to comply.

Mandatory Enforcement in Government and Semi-Government Offices

This rule applies to all departments within the Secretariat, government and semi-government offices, boards, corporations, local self-governing bodies, and institutions that receive full or partial government aid. Government officials and employees must adhere to the helmet-wearing rule when arriving at the office, and heads of offices are responsible for ensuring that their staff complies with this directive. Inspections will be conducted regularly, and office heads are tasked with enforcing this rule in their departments. If needed, the services of police or security personnel will be provided to assist with enforcement.

Reality Check at Ahmedabad Police Commissioner’s Office

Despite this strict new regulation, a reality check conducted by Divya Bhaskar revealed that many police personnel and other staff members were seen entering the Police Commissioner’s office in Ahmedabad without helmets. Although a directive had been issued just the day before, no proper checks were in place at the gate, and many employees were allowed to enter without any scrutiny. It appeared that the enforcement of the rule was largely being neglected, creating an atmosphere of indifference at the site.