Incident Caught on Video
A video circulating on social media shows a Mumbai police officer pushing a cyclist and moving his loaded bicycle out of the way during a VIP convoy movement. The footage, reported by Free Press Journal and India Today, depicts a man attempting to pass through a barricaded section while carrying goods on his bicycle. As traffic restrictions were enforced for the convoy, the officer approached the cyclist and pushed him away from the route. The man appeared to lose his balance and fall, after which the officer moved the bicycle aside, apparently to keep the restricted stretch clear for the convoy.
The incident took place while a VIP convoy was being allowed through the otherwise restricted road, according to India Today. The video quickly drew sharp criticism online, with several users condemning what they viewed as insensitive treatment of a working cyclist.
Milind Deora's Response
Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora shared the video on X and criticised the incident, emphasising that the identity of the VIP should not matter when it comes to treating members of the public with dignity. "Regardless of who the VIP was, pushing a working man and his bicycle is 'unacceptable,'" Deora wrote, as quoted by both Free Press Journal and India Today.
He also tagged Mumbai Police and the Mumbai Traffic Police, calling for action. "@MumbaiPolice and @MTPHereToHelp, please take strict action and make sure this doesn't happen again," he said.
Public Reaction
The video triggered a strong reaction on social media. Some commenters called for greater empathy from law enforcement, particularly for people who depend on bicycles and handcarts for their livelihoods, as reported by Free Press Journal. Others questioned whether disciplinary action would follow, citing concerns about enforcement and accountability in everyday traffic situations. India Today reported that one user stressed the importance of empathy and a willingness to help, while another questioned whether any action would actually be taken, pointing to what they described as a lack of strict enforcement even for basic traffic violations.
Several users backed Deora for raising the issue publicly, arguing that security arrangements for VIP movements should not come at the expense of basic courtesy. Others praised Deora for speaking up and said the treatment of the cyclist was unacceptable, according to both outlets.