A viral video has triggered strong public reaction and swift official action in Gurugram, where three traffic personnel were suspended after allegedly collecting a cash bribe from a Japanese tourist who had been stopped for riding pillion without a helmet.
The tourist, identified as Kaito, was visiting the city on August 25 and was riding with a female friend who was wearing a helmet. He, however, was not a violation that carries a Rs 1,000 penalty under Indian traffic regulations. But what turned a routine stop into a controversy was the manner in which the fine was allegedly enforced.
In a now widely circulated video, the officers are seen refusing digital payments and insisting the fine be paid in cash. When Kaito asked, “Can I use a Visa or touch?”, the officer replied, “No Visa touch,” and stated, “Pay here or in court.” The tourist then handed over two Rs 500 notes but no official receipt was issued.
What the officers didn’t realise was that Kaito was wearing Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses that recorded the entire incident. The video, which he later posted online, captured the exchange, including the officers counting the cash and smiling. He later claimed this was the only scam he faced during his trip, calling it “pocket money” for the officers.
Video Caught Eyes on Social Media
Following the video’s release, it quickly gained traction on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). A user reposted the footage with the caption: “WTH! Gurugram cops took Rs 1000 bribe from a Japanese tourist without even giving a receipt. This is how they ruin India’s image abroad.” The clip has since garnered nearly 200,000 views.
As public outrage mounted, the Gurugram Traffic Police issued a statement confirming the suspension of three personnel involved in the incident: Zonal Officer ESI Karan Singh (No. 704/GGM), Constable Shubham (No. 4061/GGM), and Home Guard Bhupender (No. 347/RTK).
“A viral video on social media has brought to light misconduct involving of the traffic staff. In line with our commitment to transparency and accountability, DCP Traffic Gurugram has taken immediate action. Suspended with immediate effect… We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in public service. There is ZERO tolerance for corruption,” the department posted on X.
DCP Rajesh Mohan stated that an investigation is ongoing and assured the public that strict measures will be taken against those involved. Citizens have also been urged to report similar incidents, with a promise of confidentiality and swift action.
Gurugram Cops Tried to Suppress Bribe Video: Tourist
The tourist also shared that the woman riding with him received repeated calls from the officers afterward, allegedly pressuring her to have the video deleted screenshots of missed calls were shared online.
Indian traffic rules clearly state that fines such as the one in question must be paid digitally, either via the Parivahan app or website, or through an authorised card reader (PoS) device if paid on the spot. Additionally, officers are required to issue a receipt none of which happened in this case.
Interestingly, Kaito expressed amazement at the speed of action, noting that the officers were suspended within nine hours of the video going viral. Thanking Indian netizens for their support, he described the encounter as a “funny” end to an otherwise scam-free journey through India.
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