Letter to the Editor
Sir,
Violent incidents are occurring with increasing regularity in Dehradun. It appears as if the ruffians have decided to play hell with civilised behaviour. Speeding vehicles crashing into homes, walls and people; drunk behaviour; violent clashes, use of firearms; murders, and clear disregard of civic laws is becoming commonplace. The death of Brigadier Joshi being the latest manifestation of what is happening in the capital of ‘Devbhoomi’ where the CM himself holds the home portfolio.
The editorial in your paper (March 31, 2026) goes into detail and suggests some measures too. I would also like to suggest a few immediate measures that would be effective to show that there is a law enforcing machinery in the city that means business.
- Regular Checks of vehicles being driven without number plates; of Driving Licences, especially of youngsters driving 4 and 2 wheelers; reprimanding those without helmets; stopping and imposing fines on those having 3 or more riders. And also fines on those jumping traffic lights and crossing the road dividing lines where provided.
- Educational Institutions have mushroomed in the city. They must collect and maintain database of ALL their students. A standard proforma can be devised by the police authorities which shall have to be filled by each student. Among other things, it must contain his/her photograph, address in Dehradun and (if from elsewhere) home address. The student will also be required to give information about any vehicle that he/she has and in whose name it is registered. A target of maximum 30 days should be given to complete this exercise, failing which action should be taken against the institution.
- Exemplary Punishment to the students who violate rules and indulge in misconduct. This responsibility should lie with the top authority of the educational institution.
- Closing Time no establishment should remain open beyond midnight and no food/beverage served beyond 10:30 p.m. All good clubs follow this practice elsewhere.
And as citizens, we too must follow rules ourselves and not merely point fingers at the police. And beware of the coming influx once the ‘2½ hours from Delhi’ highway becomes operational.
Thanking You,
Manoj Pande
