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The helmet debate

Imposition of the helmet rule in Tamil Nadu has turned out to be a farcical affair with most two-wheeler riders giving it a go-by within a few days of implementation.

Initially there was a scramble for helmets and on day one it looked as if almost everyone complied with the rule. Then came the rather vague fiat from the Chief Minister. The people and the police decided to dilute the rule. Soon, it will die a natural death.

S.T.C. Sudhakar,
Madurai

* * *

I have been riding a two-wheeler for over 40 years without sustaining as much as a scratch. When the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister relaxed the helmet rule, the two-wheeler riders' community happily rode without helmets. That was the public expression of opinion to dispense with the rule.

R. Rajaram,
Madurai

* * *

In a democratic society, the view of a majority of two-wheeler riders ought to be the basis for any rule. I am sure most of the two-wheeler riders are not for the compulsory helmet rule. By not wearing a helmet, one does not cause any harm to anyone else. Why should it be forced on the people?

R. Ramachandran,
Coimbatore

* * *

The Chief Minister's plea to officials not to harass the people is praiseworthy. Bad roads and bad drivers cause accidents. Many accidents occur when saris worn by women riders get caught in the wheel. Can we argue that sari-clad women should not ride two-wheelers? Speeding vehicles knock down pedestrians and they are killed on the spot. Should we enact a law saying people should wear helmets while walking on the road?

V. Mawley,
Srirangam

* * *

A person is forced to carry the helmet wherever he goes. It is an irritating burden. Helmets are neither scientifically designed nor made to suit individual riders. Many persons, particularly senior citizens, develop headaches because of the uneven pressure they exert on the head. As helmets cover the ears, hearing gets impeded and this may result in accidents. Good roads, effective traffic management, and good road sense will go a long way in averting accidents.

N. Mohan,
Chennai

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