VVIP Convoy Culture at the Cost of Public Inconvenience.

The VVIP convoy culture in India has often been criticized for causing a staggering level of inconvenience to the public. Roads are frequently blocked for extended periods, disrupting commuters and worsening traffic congestion. A recent incident in Bengaluru on May 31 reignited this debate. A video showed a man sitting in protest on Old Airport Road after being stranded due to a road closure while travelling with his pregnant wife. According to reports, traffic was halted for approximately 30 minutes to facilitate the movement of the convoy of Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. The incident sparked widespread discussion on whether the convenience and security of authorities should come at the cost of public inconvenience. Critics argue that prolonged traffic restrictions can delay citizens during emergencies, work commutes, and other essential travel. The debate also raises questions about the principle of equality before the law. While ordinary motorists are penalized for traffic violations such as over speeding, VIP convoys are often seen moving rapidly through city roads with police escorts, sirens, and priority access. In contrast, several countries, including Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, New Zealand, and Finland, are often cited for maintaining relatively low-profile security arrangements that seek to minimize disruption to the public. The challenge lies not in choosing between security and public convenience, but paving a way to uphold both.