“Driving a Thar Means You’re a Bit Wild”: Haryana DGP’s Lighthearted Remark Sparks Discussion

Chandigarh, November 8, 2025 Owning a Mahindra Thar may feel like a style statement for many, but according to Haryana’s top police official, it might also say something about your mindset. Director General of Police (DGP) O.P. Singh, speaking to reporters on Saturday, jokingly remarked that “people who drive a Thar must be a little crazy,” while explaining why police officers often stop such vehicles during routine checks. Singh, known for his candid and humorous tone, was addressing questions about police checking drives when he turned the conversation toward popular vehicles often associated with rash driving. “We don’t stop every vehicle for checking,” he said with a smile, “but if it’s a Thar, how can we let it pass? Or a Bullet motorcycle—those are always suspicious. Most of the troublemakers use these two.” He went on to explain that the kind of vehicle one drives often reflects their personality. “The Thar is not just a car; it’s a statement that says, ‘this is who I am.’ People who drive Thars love to perform stunts, draw attention, and sometimes even break the rules,” Singh said. Citing a recent case, he mentioned that the son of an assistant commissioner of police had run over a person while driving a Thar. “The father came asking for his son’s release. We checked the registration—turns out, the vehicle is in the father’s name. So we asked him, who’s the real culprit then?” Singh remarked, suggesting that accountability should begin at home. Turning to his colleagues, the DGP added playfully, “If we make a list of policemen who own Thars, I’m sure a few will turn out to be a bit off too. Whoever has one must be a little crazy—it’s a car that demands attention. Once you buy a Thar, you’ve accepted that it’s a part of your personality. But you can’t drive like a hooligan and then complain when you get caught.” While the DGP’s comments were partly humorous, they also reflect growing concern among authorities about the reckless use of Thar SUVs. In recent months, several incidents involving Thars have made headlines across India. Videos have surfaced of people performing dangerous stunts—such as standing or sitting on the roof of a moving vehicle, hanging from the sides, or even urinating from a moving Thar. There have also been reports of fatal accidents linked to the vehicle. In some cases, students were injured after falling off the side of a moving Thar during a celebration. In another, a Thar crashed into an electricity pole while the driver attempted to perform a risky stunt. Police officials believe the Thar’s rugged design and “macho” image attract thrill-seekers who often misuse it for attention on social media. Singh’s comments, though made in jest, highlight a serious message about responsibility and road safety. As he summed it up: “The Thar is a statement. But once you make that statement, be ready to own the consequences too.” “The Thar Is Not Just a Car, It’s a Statement”: Haryana DGP on Road Culture Haryana’s Director General of Police, O.P. Singh, stirred quite a conversation after calling Thar drivers “a little crazy” during a lighthearted interaction with reporters. He explained that police don’t stop every vehicle, but when a Thar or a Bullet passes by, they usually take a second look—because, as he put it, “all the daredevils seem to love these rides.” Singh’s remarks, though made in humor, carried a clear message about responsibility on the road. He said the Thar has become more than a car—it’s a symbol of personality and power. But with that comes a growing number of reckless incidents, from dangerous stunts to tragic accidents. Recently, videos have gone viral showing people standing on Thars, hanging out of moving vehicles, and driving carelessly. Singh reminded everyone that while driving a Thar might feel bold and exciting, safety and discipline must come first. His comment may have made people laugh, but it also hit home: owning a powerful car doesn’t give anyone the right to misuse it.