Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 24: A conductor working on a contract basis with KSRTC has been taken into custody by Konaje police after a video showing him sexually harassing a woman passenger went viral on social media.
The accused has been identified as Pradeep Kashappa Naikar (35), a native of Bagalkote.
The incident occurred on April 22 in a KSRTC bus plying from Mudipu to State Bank. The woman, who had dozed off during the journey, was subjected to sexual harassment by the conductor.
A fellow passenger recorded the act and shared the video on social media, which quickly gained widespread attention. Following this, Konaje police launched an investigation and detained the conductor.
Minister Ramalinga Reddy directs strict action against KSRTC conductor
In response to the viral video showing a KSRTC conductor misbehaving with a woman passenger in a Mangaluru division bus, transport minister Ramalinga Reddy has directed the KSRTC managing director to initiate swift disciplinary action. In his letter, the minister stated that the suspension of the conductor was appropriate, considering the prima facie evidence against him.
He emphasized that it is the primary duty of all KSRTC staff to behave respectfully towards every woman passenger. Terming the behaviour as "disgusting and inexcusable", the minister said such acts are a betrayal of the trust that the public places in KSRTC buses and its crew. He added that incidents like this damage the reputation of the entire organisation due to the actions of a few individuals.
Reddy instructed officials to immediately initiate an inquiry, complete it without delay, and proceed with dismissing the conductor from service if found guilty.