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Hyderabad Top Cop Equates Drunk Drivers to Terrorists After Deadly Bus Fire
In a strong condemnation of the Kurnool bus fire tragedy that killed 20 people, Hyderabad Police Commissioner K. Sreenivasa Reddy branded drunk drivers as “terrorists” and called the incident a “criminal act.” The fiery crash has reignited debates on drunk driving laws and enforcement in India.
What Happened in the Kurnool Bus Fire Tragedy?
A private tourist bus collided with a milk tanker on the Hyderabad-Bengaluru highway near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, early Monday. The impact caused the bus to catch fire, trapping passengers inside. Despite rescue efforts, 20 people, including women and children, died. Preliminary reports suggest the bus driver was drunk, sparking nationwide outrage.
Hyderabad CP’s Strong Statement
Commissioner Reddy stated, “Drunk drivers are no less than terrorists. They knowingly endanger lives, making it a criminal act.” He demanded harsher punishments, including immediate license cancellations and legal action.
Public Outrage & Calls for Stricter Laws
The tragedy has fueled demands for tougher drunk driving laws. Current penalties under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act include:
– Up to 6 months jail and/or ₹10,000 fine for first offense
– Stricter punishments for repeat offenders
Activists argue enforcement is weak, with offenders often escaping consequences. Hashtags like #BanDrunkDriving and #JusticeForKurnoolVictims are trending as citizens demand:
– Mandatory breathalyzer checks
– Increased highway patrolling
Why Do Such Accidents Keep Happening?
India has seen multiple deadly drunk driving cases:
– 2022 Delhi crash: Drunk driver killed 5, including 3 children
– 2020 Pune accident: 2 deaths due to drunk driving
Experts suggest solutions like:
1. Lifetime bans & non-bailable charges for fatal cases
2. Alcohol sensors in vehicles
3. Public awareness campaigns
Will the Government Take Action?
The National Road Safety Board has called an emergency meeting, but past promises have yielded little change. Commissioner Reddy’s words—“A drunk driver murders in cold blood”—highlight the urgency for reform.
Will this tragedy finally force India to crack down on drunk driving?
Stay updated with the latest developments on this story.
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