A recent incident involving a Mahindra Thar in Nagaland has reignited public debate over the irresponsible behavior associated with some owners of the popular off-roader. The event, captured on video, shows the SUV stuck on active railway tracks, leading to the driver's arrest.
Dangerous Maneuver on Dimapur Tracks
The incident occurred at Dimapur Railway Station, where a 65-year-old man attempted to drive his Mahindra Thar across the railway tracks. According to reports, the driver was engaging in a dangerous off-road stunt when his vehicle became immobilized directly on the rails. The viral video clearly shows the Thar's rear wheels spinning futilely, creating sparks against the tracks, as the driver failed to free the SUV.
Railway staff and Dimapur police were quickly alerted and rushed to the scene. Their primary concern was to safely remove both the driver and the vehicle from the tracks to prevent any damage to railway property or risk to public safety. The police later confirmed that the act was a result of gross negligence and a clear violation of both traffic and railway safety regulations.
Public Outcry and "Tharrorist" Label
The video swiftly spread across social media platforms, drawing sharp criticism from netizens who expressed disappointment but not surprise. Many users connected this event to a perceived pattern of behavior among a section of Thar owners, often labeled as "Tharrorists" – a portmanteau of Thar and terrorist – for their alleged disregard for rules.
Social media reactions were scathing. One user commented, "This 'THAR' behaviour is spreading rapidly, with many Thar owners acting as though owning such a vehicle gives them the freedom to drive anywhere and ignore rules and safety." Another user starkly stated, "Thar is not a car but mental condition of a person." The sentiment of reckless entitlement was echoed by an angry netizen who demanded, "Ban Thar! Filthy rich rogues think they own the roads, railway platforms, all spaces."
Legal Consequences for the Driver
The Dimapur police took strict action following the perilous stunt. The driver was arrested after officials reported he was found in an inebriated state. In addition to the arrest, the Mahindra Thar involved in the incident was also taken into police custody. This case adds to a growing list of similar incidents where Thar owners have been criticized for risky off-road antics that endanger themselves and the public.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of negligent driving, especially in sensitive zones like railway tracks. It also underscores the ongoing controversy surrounding the culture of off-road bravado that has become unfortunately synonymous with a segment of SUV owners in the country.
