Video: BJP MLA Dons Traffic Cop's Hat in Bengaluru For a Day, Wins Hearts

Senior BJP MLA Suresh Kumar stepped away from his legislative duties and joined Bengaluru Traffic Police for a two hour ground level experience on Tuesday morning, surprising several motorists at Bashyam Circle in Rajajinagar. His active involvement drew appreciation both offline and online as clips of his participation surfaced later.

Citizen Volunteer Program Experience

Kumar participated through the "Traffic Cop for a Day" programme run by the city traffic department, which gives residents an opportunity to observe challenges on the road, suggest improvements, and work briefly alongside personnel after registering through the BTP ASTraM app. The initiative aims to create behavioural awareness rather than just offer theoretical advice.

According to NDTV, Kumar said, "Following traffic rules is a matter of fundamental duty; when right is replaced by duty, every resident can contribute to minimise the traffic jam."

Social Media Post Detailing His Learnings

Soon after completing his shift, the former education minister shared his thoughts online. He wrote that the short assignment had given him practical insights into the responsibilities handled by constables. "I gained immense experience by working as a traffic police constable for a day, and I enjoyed this work. This initiative by the Bengaluru Traffic Police is truly welcome. The experience of controlling traffic during the peak hour at Bhashyam Circle in Rajajinagar this morning was unforgettable."

A video shared by him shows Kumar in an official reflective jacket operating signal controls, questioning those who violated rules, speaking with on duty officers, and helping maintain road discipline.

In another part of the video he expressed how meaningful the activity felt. "Today in a way is a festive atmosphere for me. We celebrate and participate in various festivals and events, but the experience I gained as traffic police personnel is unique, as I personally got to know the way the commuters follow or react to the traffic rules and how they respond when an effort is made to make them understand the rules."

Regular Support Pledge for Traffic Teams

Kumar mentioned that he had been considering such participation for quite some time, especially at busy points like Chalukya Circle near Vidhana Soudha. He said, "I have managed traffic at Modi junction and Navarang circle on various occasions, like during rains and traffic jams. When I saw the Bengaluru traffic police's announcement on social media that any citizen can become a traffic police for a day, I enrolled myself."

Kumar stated that the session between 9 am and 11 am helped him understand how difficult field duty can be and that he would like to continue supporting officers. He shared his intention through a commitment, saying, "I have told the traffic police that he will be with them for an hour every Monday to support and help them in managing or controlling the traffic. It is a good experience in life."