Exposing Bangalore's Traffic Police Corruption: A Rant from a Fellow Citizen
This is a story of everyday corruption that plagues the traffic police in Bangalore, a city that should be known for its tech prowess, not for its law enforcement reputation. Over the years, I have encountered numerous instances where the traffic police have exhibited an alarming level of corruption at every turn. Let's delve into the harsh realities faced by both the privileged and the working class due to this pervasive issue.
Widespread Corruption in Traffic Police
Most mornings, as I navigate the bustling roads of Bangalore, I find myself stopping frequently at checkpoints spread every 3 kilometers. Regardless of whether you are driving a luxury car brand or a humble two-wheeler, the traffic police treat everyone equally, demanding money upon stopping. This is true even if you have all the necessary documents in order. Any infringement, real or perceived, is grounds for a fine or a bribe. The additional indignity is compounded for those with non-Karnataka number plates, who face even greater harassment.
A Working Class’s Battle for Livelihood
IT professionals, sincere tax-payers, and hardworking individuals just trying to make ends meet also face the brunt of this injustice. On their way to work or for any minor errand, they are humiliated and fined in the name of missing documents or breaking traffic rules. This daily occurrence can be disheartening and demotivating. Imagine going through such tribulations every day, losing peace of mind and respect in the process.
The Extent of Corruption
Corruption does not just start when people are caught breaking traffic rules; it begins when people start dealing with law enforcement officials to avoid fines. According to my own observations, each traffic police officer can gather a substantial sum of 10-15,000 Indian Rupees (approximately 150-250 USD) in fines on a typical day, often from popular locations. A significant portion of these fines never reach the public coffers.
Personal Anecdotes and Experiences
In one particular instance, I was scheduled for an interview near Indira Nagar at 2 PM, but I was based in HSR layout, about 10 kilometers away. Starting at 12:30 PM, I was stuck in traffic until 1:30 PM. On my way to Ejipura Signal, I was caught driving at nearly 55 kilometers per hour, which is over the speed limit for two-wheelers in Bangalore. Without a pollution certificate and an embossed rear number plate, I was faced with a hefty fine of 5,000 INR.
Now, should I pay the full fine, request to pay it later, or pay a bribe to attend my interview on time? The decision to pay a bribe is not only a question of morality but one of necessity. The humiliation of such an incident lingers on, and driving any faster than the maximum limit feels unsafe and daunting.
Widespread Problems and Common People
Ironically, this issue affects everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status. Two-wheeler riders, who already struggle to make ends meet, often have to spend at least a portion of their daily earnings on bribes to make it to their day's work. The daily ritual becomes a cycle of risking livelihood to save just a few rupees for basic needs.
With over 1,000 traffic rules to adhere to, it's challenging to maintain compliance. Even if one follows the rules religiously, there's a 100% chance of being involved in an accident within a week. Laws and regulations are just that - guidelines. However, the implementation of these rules by the police has become a bidding game, where common people are the unsuspecting bidders.
It's not just about driving anymore; it's about surviving day-to-day challenges in Bangalore. The traffic police should be a force for law and order, not a source of constant frustration and financial strain. We need to take a stand and bring about a change. For now, we all continue to navigate a city where the price of driving seems too high to bear.
Conclusion
Bangalore's traffic police need a serious overhaul to address the rampant corruption and harassment. Until then, we, the citizens, must rise above this issue and find ways to mitigate the impact of such practices. It's time for the authorities to step up and make reforms that will ensure justice and fairness for all.