Buying the cheapest mode of transport in India, the bicycle will not be as easy as before. Customers now need to prove their identity before they can buy. An identity proof, address and telephone number is now mandatory in Varanasi.

The police have told the entire bicycle seller in Varanasi to note down the identity and address proof on their cash memo. As usual there are mixed reactions to this new method which is similar to buying a mobile phone SIM card.

Bicycle traders have already started complaining that most of the customers are from rural areas and it would be a joke to ask the farmers for proof of their address. But the fact is traders evade tax by selling bicycles without bill, with the new method they would be forced to issue bills there by getting the transaction taxable.

No matter from where the farmer comes from every house has an address. If people vote then the definitely have an identity. When people staring in rural areas afford a mobile phone, having an identity proof should not be an issue.

Well anything is possible in India thanks to corporation. Getting a fake identity proof is easier. Along with the identity proof if any the photo graph of the customer buying along with his thumb impression especially in the rural areas could make it difficult for terrorist to acquire bicycle.

This may not be a fool proof method but definitely offer some resistance. It is for the welfare of the Indian Citizens and their support is necessary.

A Senior Inspector said
“There’s no law that one must show proof of identity to buy a bicycle, but the traders have a responsibility to see they sell the cycles to the right people”