Traffic rules only for citizens: Gujarat MLAs drive buses without seatbelt

With local body elections approaching, the government has been actively inaugurating development projects, including the launch of new buses by the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC). However, incidents from these events have raised concerns, as public representatives themselves appear to be violating traffic rules.

In Jetpur, BJP MLA Jayesh Radadiya, and in Somnath, Congress MLA Vimal Chudasama, flagged off new buses and then took the driver’s seat themselves. During this, both were seen driving without wearing seatbelts, openly violating traffic regulations, which has sparked controversy.

Videos of both leaders have gone viral on social media, drawing criticism. At an event in Jetpur, former minister and MLA Jayesh Radadiya enthusiastically sat in the driver’s seat and drove the bus. The viral video clearly shows he was not wearing a seatbelt, raising questions about negligence of basic traffic rules by a responsible leader.

A similar incident occurred in Somnath, where Congress MLA Vimal Chudasama also drove a newly launched bus without wearing a seatbelt. After the videos surfaced online, people began questioning whether traffic rules apply only to ordinary citizens.

A more serious question that has emerged is whether these MLAs even possess the legal licence required to drive heavy public transport vehicles. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, driving heavy commercial vehicles requires a specific licence and proper training.

While ordinary citizens are fined strictly for violations such as riding without a helmet or driving without a licence, the apparent lack of action against elected representatives violating rules raises concerns about double standards and enforcement by authorities.