A single comment from Haryana’s top police officer has set the internet buzzing. Director General of Police (DGP) O.P. Singh recently said that the popular Thar SUV and Bullet motorcycle reflect a “notorious mindset,” describing them as symbols people use to “show off power and status.”

His strong words, made in Gurugram, quickly went viral, with social media users split between support and outrage.

The remarks came as part of a wider road safety campaign in Gurugram, where road accidents have claimed 345 lives and injured over 580 people this year.

As part of a new rule, bars and restaurants in the city are now responsible if their customers are caught drunk driving. The police have invoked Section 168 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) to make this possible.

Under the order, bars must display warnings against drunk driving and deploy staff to keep an eye on intoxicated customers. They must also help arrange safe rides home. The police have warned that “strict action” will be taken against places that fail to follow these directions.

Why Thar and Bullet were singled out

DGP Singh didn’t hold back in his comments. “All rogue elements use these two,” he said, referring to the Thar and Bullet. “The choice of vehicle reflects your mindset. People who drive Thars perform stunts on the roads.”

He added that police cannot ignore such vehicles during checks. “We don’t check all vehicles. If it’s a Thar, how can we let it go? Or if it’s a Bullet motorcycle…”

Calling the Thar more than just a car, Singh said it has “become a statement that says, ‘this is how I am’.”

To stress his point, Singh even shared an example from within the department — the son of an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) once ran over a person while driving a Thar. When the officer tried to defend his son, Singh said he asked, “Whose name is the car registered in? It’s in his name, so he is the rogue element.”

Mixed reactions online

Soon after, social media erupted with mixed reactions. Some people supported Singh, saying his comments were fair. “Thar and Bullet have become the identity of the goons,” one user wrote, while another called it a “much-needed step to put a rein on them.”

But many others disagreed. “What about these bad roads? What about trucks driving on the wrong side?” one person asked. Another added, “Sir, how many crimes have actually been done using a Bullet? Chain snatching? Murder? Firing?”

Rising concern over reckless driving

The debate comes on the heels of a tragic crash near Gurugram, where a Thar hit a divider on the National Highway, killing five people who were returning from a late-night party.

With more such incidents being reported, the conversation around road safety — and now, vehicle image — continues to grow louder in Gurugram.