BJP leader and former state president Dilip Ghosh once again became the focus of social media discussion after a video from Kolkata’s Eco Park went viral on Thursday morning. Usually known for taking his morning walks in the New Town park whenever he is in the city, this time Ghosh was seen in a completely different avatar, riding a luxury motorcycle said to be worth around ₹53 lakh inside the park premises.
What drew even greater public attention was that the senior BJP leader was riding the high-end motorcycle without a helmet. Another individual was seated behind him, also without any visible protective gear. The video quickly went viral online, prompting criticism and sarcastic remarks from social media users who questioned whether traffic regulations are enforced equally for politicians and ordinary citizens. Owing to his persona, the Bengal media frequently refers to him as 'Dabangg Dilip'.
The high-end motorcycle, renowned for its powerful engine and upscale design, is said to deliver a mileage of roughly 15 kilometres per litre, making it not only costly but also heavy on fuel consumption. This detail sparked further discussion online, particularly at a time when the central government has consistently stressed austerity, fuel conservation, and responsible behaviour by the public.
Many social media users highlighted the inconsistency between the public messaging and the minister’s behavior. One user sarcastically commented, “They’re allowed to do it, he’s a minister,” while others openly questioned why he was not wearing a helmet, despite ongoing government campaigns advocating road safety.