With helmet rules for two-wheeler riders enforced across the district from December 1, Mulabagilu Block Congress president V Adinarayana, who had contested and lost the last Assembly election, organised a massive free helmet distribution drive. The event, titled Jeeva Sanjeevini, was inaugurated by Kolar MLA Kothur Manjunath at a local ground that soon resembled a fairground.
Helmets looted in Karnataka
Organisers had planned to distribute between 20,000 and 25,000 helmets, setting up 16 counters to manage the crowd. However, the announcement of free helmets triggered an overwhelming response. More than 30,000 people reportedly turned up, leading to a complete breakdown of crowd control arrangements.
People rushed forward in large numbers, ignoring queues. Some climbed onto trucks carrying helmet cartons and grabbed whatever they could. Several boxes of helmets were lifted away amid the rush, while many who had been standing patiently in line were forced to return empty-handed as the situation spiralled out of control.
The crowd surged uncontrollably, raising concerns over public safety. Ironically, an initiative aimed at protecting lives on the road ended up with people putting their lives at risk for getting a free helmet.
Authorities have made helmets compulsory for both two-wheeler riders and pillion passengers from December 1 and have launched a special enforcement drive. Police personnel have been deployed on roads to fine violators. The initiative aims to curb bike-related accidents, improve road safety and encourage riders to wear helmets to avoid penalties.