Despite opposition by certain quarters, the Delhi Transport Department has finally decided to make helmets mandatory for women riding pillion on two wheelers in the Capital. Citing the risks involved in riding pillion without a helmet, the department has sought permission from the Election Commission of India for issuing a gazette notification about making it mandatory for women riders to wear the protective headgear.
The Delhi Government’s decision came after the Delhi High Court verdict making helmets compulsory for pillion riders irrespective of their gender and religion. However, the Government has been delaying implementation of the order following opposition from Sikhs. Expressing concern over the number of accidents taking place on the city’s road, the Transport Department said each day two persons driving two wheelers die and helmets will help save lives.