BMTC driver hits biker; authorities promise action

This video was captured by BMTC commuter Hamid. When he confronted the driver for assaulting the biker, the driver first asked him to speak in Kannada. When Hamid spoke to him in broken Kannada, the driver asked him: “Who are you to ask?”

The BMTC authorities have seen the video and promised action by tweeting, “Regrets the inconvenience caused. Taking note of this; serious action will be initiated against the erring crew.”

However, several other residents of Bangalore have said that they have faced rude BMTC drivers too. Hamid says, “What I need as a bystander sitting in the bus is to ID the biker and compensate him, if you can.” Another resident said, “Horrible treatment by the BMTC driver. He should be reprimanded for this, and BMTC should take serious action. Not only did he assault the biker, but also used aggressive language against the passenger.” Deepak D adds, “They (BMTC drivers) are rude and arrogant. The driver thought he will talk in Kannada and you will get scared. Kudos to you (Hamid) in confronting him. I have done this a couple of times but they are shameless.” Bruce also observed: “Guess you are supposed to talk and raise your concerns only if you speak Kannada. Way to go, goonda drivers.”

One resident had saner advice: “Such incidents should not be encouraged, The department should investigate, take action and also train the staff.” Saurav said, “Seriously, BMTC. If your crew have such power, then ask them to join Indian Army.  Do all this with terrorists. Please let us know what action you took… Don’t just tweet about it.”

While no FIR is lodged, the residents want the biker to file an FIR. However, the biker also appeared to be at fault, which is why he meekly submitted to the driver’s physical assaults. He was coming from the wrong side of the road, and neither he nor the pillion rider wore a helmet. Going by the driver’s behaviour, while it is unlawful, one must judge the merit of the case and give an impartial hearing. In addition, if the driver is mentally imbalanced, that should also be thoroughly examined as he could be a danger in the future too. Road rage should be taken seriously.

UPDATE (FEB 1, 2020): The BMTC suspended the accused driver Santosh Badiger, pending enquiry. In a statement, they said: “BMTC has viewed the misbehaviour of driver Santosh Badiger of Depot 28 seriously and suspended him with immediate effect, pending enquiry.”