Government to initiate crackdown on non-ISI helmets

New Delhi: In a bid to enhance road safety and protect consumers from sub-standard helmets, the central government has mandated District Collectors (DCs) and District Magistrates (DMs) to initiate a nationwide campaign targeting manufacturers and retailers selling non-compliant helmets for two-wheeler riders.

Addressing Quality Concerns
This initiative by the Department of Consumer Affairs addresses the growing concerns regarding helmet quality and their vital role in ensuring safety on the roads. Helmets are critical safety products, and the manufacture of sub-standard or non-ISI helmets significantly jeopardises life safety.

Actions Taken So Far
To date, 162 helmet manufacturing licences have been cancelled or have expired. Furthermore, 27 search and seizure operations have been conducted to combat the misuse of the BIS Standard Mark and violations of quality controls, resulting in cases filed in various courts.

Regulatory Framework
Under the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, wearing a helmet is mandatory. Reports indicate that sub-standard helmets lacking the required BIS certification are being sold along roadsides. "This poses a severe risk to public safety and has been linked to numerous fatalities in road accidents. There is an urgent need to tackle this issue head-on," stated the government.

Call for Enforcement
The government has called for strict enforcement against manufacturers operating without BIS licences or using counterfeit ISI Marks, as well as against retailers selling these non-compliant products to unsuspecting consumers. Consumers can verify a helmet manufacturer's BIS licence through the BIS Care App or by visiting the BIS website.

Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Consumer Affairs, Government of India, said, "We urge all stakeholders to actively participate in this campaign for the safety of our citizens."

ANI