Police warn youth against social media-driven bike racing

The Greater Chennai Police Commissioner A. Amalraj on Monday warned youngsters against indulging in high-speed bike racing organised through social media platforms, cautioning that legal action could jeopardise their future.

Speaking to reporters after handing over 63 motorcycles worth approximately ₹1 crore to the Greater Chennai Traffic Police, donated by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Mr. Amalraj said groups of youngsters were using platforms such as Instagram and X to mobilise participants for high-speed riding at short notice. Those involved in recent incidents had been arrested, he said.

Many of the youngsters were aged 15 to 16 and did not possess valid driving licences. Riding at high speeds without proper training could lead to accidents and loss of life, he said, urging parents and teachers to counsel youngsters against such activities.

Action would be taken against parents of minors found riding vehicles in violation of the law, he said.

Responding to concerns that participants often rode motorcycles without number plates, Mr. Amalraj said the police would focus on identifying those involved and is taking appropriate action.

Earlier, at a function held at the Police Commissionerate in Vepery, Mr. Amalraj handed over the motorcycles to the traffic police and flagged off the fleet in the presence of CSK Managing Director K.S. Viswanathan. The fleet comprises 38 Honda Shine and 25 Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycles, which will be used to ease traffic congestion and improve patrolling.