NEW DELHI, July 5 -- The Centre has asked states to take strict action on manufacturers and retailers selling sub-standard helmets to ensure the safety of two-wheeler riders. "The Department of Consumer Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) appeal to consumers across the country to use only BIS-certified helmets," an official statement said on Saturday. The department also called for strict enforcement against the manufacture or sale of helmets without BIS certification, it added.

With over 21 crore two-wheelers on Indian roads, rider safety is paramount," the department said, adding that wearing a helmet is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

It pointed out that the sale of sub-standard helmets compromises safety. ...