Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 25: A KSRTC bus conductor has been accused of sexually harassing a young woman, prompting swift action from the state government. Taking serious note of the incident, state transport minister Ramalinga Reddy has directed a speedy investigation and ordered that the conductor be dismissed from service.
Based on a complaint filed by a social activist, Konaje police arrested the accused, identified as Pradeep Naikar (35), a resident of Bagalkot. KSRTC promptly suspended him from duty.
It may be recalled, on April 22, two young women were seated in the reserved women's section of a KSRTC bus operating between Mudipu and State Bank. One of them had fallen asleep during the journey. The conductor reportedly approached the sleeping woman and behaved inappropriately, subjecting her to sexual harassment. The incident was captured on mobile by a passenger seated near the driver and later shared on social media, where it quickly went viral.
The video of the incident sparked widespread outrage among netizens, who condemned the conductor’s behaviour. Taking serious note of the public reaction, KSRTC officials issued an immediate suspension order. Subsequently, minister Ramalinga Reddy was informed, and he directed the KSRTC managing director to launch an investigation and take steps to dismiss the conductor from service.
Describing the incident as disgusting and an unpardonable crime, minister Ramalinga Reddy ordered that the accused be removed from service. “Every female passenger must be treated with dignity. The public has deep trust in KSRTC drivers and conductors. Misconduct by a few individuals damages the reputation of the entire organization. An inquiry must be initiated without delay, and appropriate action taken swiftly,” he stated.
Mangaluru police commissioner Anupam Agrawal confirmed that an FIR has been registered against the accused under Sections 74 (assault or criminal force with intent to outrage a woman's modesty) and 75 (sexual harassment) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.