Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood is under scrutiny after a video surfaced showing him riding a motorcycle shirtless and without a helmet in the Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh. The incident has sparked widespread criticism, especially considering Sood’s previous advocacy for road safety.
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Incident Overview
The viral video, shared on social media, depicts Sonu Sood riding a bike through the snow-covered terrains of Spiti Valley, dressed only in shorts and sunglasses, without any protective gear. The footage quickly garnered attention and backlash from netizens, who pointed out the actor’s apparent disregard for safety norms.
Police Response
In response to the public outcry, the Spiti Police issued a statement acknowledging the video. They noted that, according to preliminary information, the footage may have been recorded in 2023. The police have initiated an investigation to verify the authenticity of the video and determine if any traffic rules were violated. They emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and urged all visitors to Spiti Valley to follow safety protocols.
Actor’s Clarification
Sonu Sood addressed the controversy by clarifying that the video was part of a scripted sequence. He emphasized his commitment to safety and adherence to laws, stating, “Safety First. We always abide by the laws. An old clip without the helmet was a part of our script. So kindly ignore. RIDE SAFE. RIDE SMART. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET.” However, he did not specify the project or context in which the video was filmed.
Public Reaction
The incident has led to mixed reactions online. While some defended Sood, citing the video’s potential as part of a scripted scene, many criticized him for setting a poor example, especially given his previous involvement in road safety campaigns. One user remarked, “Pls wear riding gears n helmet…you’ve been a great example of kindness and inspiration. Pls don’t encourage riding without helmet n proper gears in terrain like these.”
Similar Incidents
This is not the first time Sonu Sood has faced criticism over safety-related issues. In December 2022, he shared a video of himself traveling on the footboard of a moving train, which led to warnings from the Mumbai Railway Police about the dangers of such behavior. Additionally, in November 2024, a separate incident in Uttarakhand saw a youth detained and his bike seized after performing shirtless stunts, highlighting the authorities’ zero-tolerance approach to such reckless behavior.
The controversy surrounding Sonu Sood’s shirtless ride in Spiti Valley underscores the significant influence public figures have on their audiences. While Sood has clarified that the video was scripted, the incident serves as a reminder of the responsibility celebrities bear in promoting safety and adhering to regulations. As the police investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what actions, if any, will be taken.
By – Sonali