Daijiworld Media Network – Haveri

Haveri, May 1: The Congress-led Karnataka government has suspended a state road transport corporation bus driver for halting the vehicle during duty hours to perform namaz, triggering a controversy that has been widely discussed on social media and drawn sharp reactions from right-wing groups.

A R Mulla, a driver with the Hanagal Unit of the North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), was suspended on Thursday following an internal inquiry that found him in violation of KSRTC service rules.

The incident occurred on April 29 around 5:30 pm, when Mulla was operating a bus service on the Vishalgarh–Hanagal route. According to the official suspension order issued by the Haveri divisional controller, Mulla allegedly stopped the bus on the outskirts of Hubballi city and performed namaz on a passenger seat while passengers were onboard.

“You have committed dereliction of duty while on public service and in the presence of passengers,” the order stated. “Your action has also brought negative publicity to the organisation, as the incident has been widely discussed on social and mainstream media.”

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, has been implemented to ensure that Mulla’s continued service does not interfere with the ongoing investigation. As per KSRTC rules, he will receive half of his salary during the suspension period.

A video of the incident recorded by a passenger went viral on social media, sparking criticism from several quarters. Hindu activists have demanded strict action against Mulla, accusing him of disregarding public service responsibilities for personal religious practices.

The state transport department has yet to comment officially on the larger implications of the incident, even as the controversy fuels fresh debate on the balance between personal faith and public duty.