Awadhesh K Mishra
The Delhi governments scrap policy has once again highlighted the plight of the Indian middle class. By declaring diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years as scrap, the government has shown that it views citizens merely as taxpayers and consumers, rather than as sensitive individuals with emotions, needs, and dignity.
This policy is not just about vehicles; its about the values of our society. Its about whether we prioritize the needs of the corporate sector over those of ordinary citizens. The fact that old airplanes, which emit far more pollution than any car, are still allowed to fly while private vehicles are being forced off the roads is a stark paradox.
The governments argument that old vehicles are the primary source of pollution is incomplete. A vehicle that regularly obtains a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate and is technically "fit" should not be declared scrap solely on the basis of its age. This policy is not just policy negligence but also social injustice.
The impact of this policy on the elderly is particularly cruel. Many of them use their cars as a companion after retirement, and forcing them to buy a new vehicle would impose a heavy financial burden on them. Its heart-wrenching to see people who have worked hard their entire lives being forced to give up their independence.
The timing of this policy is also suspicious. The demand for new cars in the automobile industry suddenly accelerated after the policy was announced. Is it just a coincidence, or is policymaking now being done with corporate sales in mind, rather than the welfare of citizens?
We need to rethink this policy and find a more equitable solution. Vehicles should be evaluated based on regular PUC and fitness tests, not just their anniversary. Separate rules should be made for private and commercial vehicles. The burden of forced sales should not be imposed in the name of the scrap policy.
The government should consider the feelings of citizens. This is not just about cars; its about the self-respect with which the middle class participates in the countrys development. The governments responsibility shouldnt be limited to just building roads; it should also build trust.
Lets not throw our voices into the scrapyard:
We are not just driving vehicles; we are moving towards the direction of AATMNIRBHAR LIFE in the movement for an AATMNIRBHAR BHARAT. Its time for the government to listen to our voices and work towards a more just and equitable society.