The Delhi Government on 28 August 2014 made it mandatory for women riding a two-wheeler to wear helmets in Delhi NCR region. The purpose is to ensure safety of women in the national capital. The law came into effect after the government amended rule 115 of the Delhi Motor Vehicles Rules, 1993.
The government granted exemption to Sikh women to value religious sentiments of Sikhs. The Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee (DSGMC) welcomed the decision of the Delhi Government.Reason behind the amendment
According to the Delhi Transport Department, in 2012, around 580 two-wheeler riders lost their lives in accidents. Head injuries were the main cause of their death. This was an outcome of non-use of helmets. Keeping this in mind, the amendment to the Delhi Motor Vehicles Rules, 1993 was proposed by the Delhi Transport Department.
Rule 115 of the Delhi Motor Vehicles Rules, 1993
The Clause (2) of the rule 115 of Delhi Motor Vehicles Rules, 1993 grants exception in favour of women, it makes it optional for them to wear helmets. This clause was required to be deleted to ensure women safety.
Earlier in 1998, the Delhi Government had made wearing of helmets mandatory for all pillion riders, but it had to amend the Delhi Motor Vehicle Rules in June 1999 making it optional for women due to objections from Sikh community.
Background
On 2 May 2014, Lt Governor Najeeb Jung gave approval to Delhi Transport Department to go-ahead in inviting suggestions from general public on issue of road safety. During suggestions, it came out that wearing of helmets should be made mandatory for all.
Moreover, some Muslim also demanded relief for burqa-clad women riding pillion in the capital.
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