Haryana’s Director General of Police (DGP) O.P. Singh stirred up an interesting mix of reactions this week after making some candid, half-humorous, and half-serious remarks about Mahindra Thar owners. During an interaction with reporters, the state’s top cop was addressing the procedures that police follow while conducting vehicle checks. But what caught everyone’s attention was his witty observation — that if there’s one vehicle the cops can’t ignore, it’s the Thar.
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Haryana top cop says Thar owners are ‘crazy’
“If it’s a Thar, how can we let it go? Or a Bullet motorcycle… all rogue elements use these two,” Singh said, smiling as he spoke. “The choice of vehicle reflects your mindset. People who drive Thars often perform stunts on the road. Recently, the son of an Assistant Commissioner of Police ran over someone while driving a Thar. When his father asked us to release him, we checked whose name the car was registered under. It was his father’s. So we told him, ‘You’re the one responsible then — you’re the rogue element.’”
His comment, though laced with humour, pointed to a deeper concern about reckless driving and misuse of popular vehicles for showmanship. Thar, the iconic off-roader by Mahindra, has become a cultural statement in Haryana and neighbouring regions. It’s not just a car — it’s a badge of pride, status, and power. But as DGP Singh hinted, that “statement” sometimes comes with a darker side.
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Turning towards one of his colleagues during the conversation, Singh continued with a grin, “If we make a list of police officers, how many will have a Thar? Whoever has it, he must be crazy — dimaag ghuma hua hoga uska!” He went on to add, “It’s not a simple car, it’s a reflection of attitude. Owning a Thar is saying, ‘This is who I am.’ Okay, fine — but be ready to face the consequences. You can’t indulge in hooliganism and then expect to get away scot-free.”
The DGP’s words might have been said lightly, but they highlight a real problem visible on Haryana’s roads. Over the past few years, there have been numerous incidents involving Thars — from reckless stunts filmed for social media reels to tragic accidents caused by rash driving. Videos have surfaced showing youngsters standing on sideboards, sitting on rooftops, and even urinating from moving vehicles. The trend, unfortunately, has turned what was meant to be a tough off-roader into a symbol of road arrogance.
Mahindra’s Thar, ever since its relaunch, has captured the imagination of India’s youth. Its bold design, convertible top, and rugged appeal have made it a favourite among influencers, adventure lovers, and those looking to make a style statement. But the growing misuse of this vehicle for thrill-seeking behaviour is giving it a controversial reputation — one that law enforcement can’t afford to ignore.
Traffic authorities in several Haryana districts have already tightened vigilance on such vehicles. “We’re not against anyone owning a Thar,” said a senior police officer who was present at the event. “But we do expect drivers to behave responsibly. The vehicle has become synonymous with power and attitude, but that doesn’t mean you get to break the law.”
Several fatal accidents involving Thars have been reported in the state — many of them a result of overspeeding or reckless stunts gone wrong. With social media often rewarding risk-taking with views and followers, many young drivers are pushing limits without realising the potential consequences.
Peddler Media Take:
The Thar has always been more than just a rugged SUV — it’s a lifestyle flex, a status symbol, and in Haryana, almost a personality trait. But as the state’s top cop points out, power and pride behind the wheel come with responsibility too. Whether you drive a Thar or a Bullet, the real statement today is how sensibly you handle it. Because style looks best when it’s safe — that’s the real swag.
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