Did a Gurugram Thar Owner Really Send a Legal Notice to Haryana DGP Over 'Criminal' Remarks?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Lawsuit Filed: A Gurugram Thar owner has filed a legal notice against Haryana DGP O.P. Singh.
- Controversial Remarks: DGP Singh's comments suggested a 'criminal mindset' among Thar and Bullet owners.
- Public Backlash: The statement triggered widespread outrage on social media platforms.
- Legal Demands: The notice demands a public apology and retraction within 15 days.
- Stereotyping Concerns: The incident raises important questions about public stereotyping of vehicle owners.
Gurugram, Nov 26 (NationPress) A resident of Gurugram and an enthusiastic owner of a Mahindra Thar has initiated legal proceedings against Haryana's Director General of Police (DGP) O.P. Singh. He is seeking a public apology and the retraction of statements made earlier this month that purportedly suggest Thar and Bullet motorcycle owners possess a “criminal mindset.”
During a press conference on November 8 in Gurugram, while addressing issues of road safety and traffic violations, the DGP claimed that a majority of Thar and Bullet riders exhibit criminal behavior, igniting significant backlash.
This comment led to a swift and vocal response on social media, where many vehicle owners and enthusiasts criticized it as an unfair generalization.
Former Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala also voiced his disapproval of the comment online.
Among those particularly offended was Sarvo Mitra, a resident of Gurugram who owns a Thar. Feeling personally slighted, Mitra opted to take legal action against the DGP.
Through legal representation, he has delivered a notice to the DGP, demanding a public apology within 15 days, along with a formal retraction of the controversial statement.
The legal notice asserts that since the DGP's remarks went viral, Mitra has experienced mockery, ridicule, and derogatory comments from acquaintances and strangers alike.
The notice mentions that these remarks have caused him “mental distress, embarrassment, and social discomfort,” and have wrongfully linked law-abiding citizens to criminal activities based solely on their choice of vehicle.
“Numerous Thar and Bullet owners are responsible drivers. Labeling them as criminals tarnishes their image,” the notice argues, highlighting that the DGP's comments foster an environment conducive to stereotyping and public derision.
Mitra has warned that if the police chief does not issue a public apology and retract his statements within the designated 15-day timeframe, he will seek further legal recourse, potentially escalating to a court case.
This incident continues to ignite discussions across Haryana and on various social media platforms.