Bengaluru: In what could be a bizarre statement, Deputy Chief Minister, Govind Karjol, claims that accidents happen not because of bad roads, but due to good roads.
He made this statement explaining his government’s decision to slash hefty fines for traffic violations introduced by the Centre.
“Every year around 10,000 accidents are reported in the state. The media claims it is due to bad roads. But I believe it is due to good roads,” Deputy Chief Minister Govind Karjol told reporters in Chitradurga on Wednesday.
ALSO READ: Delhi: Woman shot dead, police apprehends husband
Karjol, who holds the Public Works portfolio, was responding when asked why the penalties should be exorbitant when poor infrastructure was causing accidents.
Karjol said he was not in favour of exorbitant penalty and the state cabinet will take a decision on reducing the fine amount.
His comments drew criticism on social media with several questioning his logic.
Heavy fines for traffic violations have triggered worry among motorists across the country. Under the new rules, the fine for drunk driving has been hiked from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 10,000. Fine for driving without a seat-belt has been hiked from Rs. 100 to Rs.1,000.