Haryana DGP reportedly remarked that most Thar and bullet riders have a criminal mindset.

A resident of Gurugram and Mahindra Thar owner has sent a legal notice to Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) O. P. Singh, demanding a public apology and the withdrawal of remarks that allegedly depicted Thar and bullet motorcycle owners as having a “criminal mindset.”

During a press conference on November 8 in Gurugram, the DGP commented on road safety and traffic violations, reportedly stating that most Thar and bullet riders have a criminal mindset. This remark led to a heated discussion on social media, with vehicle owners and enthusiasts criticising it as a sweeping generalisation.

On Monday, Sarvo Miter, a resident of Gurugram’s Sector 102, issued a legal notice to the DGP through his legal counsel. The notice detailed that Miter had purchased a Thar in January 2023 for over Rs 30 lakh due to its robust build, safety features, and reliable performance, which suited his need for a dependable vehicle for daily travel.The notice argued that the DGP’s comment lacked factual basis or justification and was made in a mocking and insulting tone toward all Thar owners, including Miter. It claimed that the media persons’ reaction, who allegedly laughed immediately after the remark, indicated the tone.

“As the Director General of Police, Haryana, your words carry significant authority and influence, thereby causing grave and amplified damage to my client’s reputation,” the notice was quoted by PTI.

It added that the statement was widely circulated across print, electronic, digital, and social media platforms, resulting in “extensive reputational damage and public ridicule” for Thar owners.

Miter’s lawyer stated that the complainant faced mental stress, loss of dignity, and damage to his personal and social reputation after being confronted by relatives, friends, neighbours, and guests following the remark. The notice further asserted that the remarks lowered the public image of all Thar owners, providing grounds for civil and criminal defamation.

The DGP has been asked to tender an unconditional written apology and retract his remark within 15 days, failing which he would face prosecution under Section 356(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other provisions, it said.