Transport Minister orders revocation of suspended BMTC conductor, warns against harassing passengers over change
Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh has ordered the revocation of the suspension of a BMTC conductor who had asked him to get off a bus
Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh has ordered the revocation of the suspension of a BMTC conductor who had asked him to get off a bus over the issue of exact change, while directing all transport corporations to ensure passengers are not harassed under the pretext of a shortage of coins. On Wednesday, the Minister issued the directions to drivers and conductors of all State-run transport corporations, including the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), stating that exploiting or inconveniencing passengers because of a lack of change is unacceptable.
Referring to recent complaints from commuters, Mr. Suresh said, “Several passengers had alleged that conductors were forcing them to alight from buses citing the non-availability of change. I had personally experienced a similar incident during a surprise inspection on July 11.” During the inspection, the Minister travelled on a BMTC bus operating from Kempegowda Bus Station to Nagashettihalli, where conductor T.G. Ramakrishna allegedly asked him to get off the bus because he did not have the exact fare.
Following the incident, BMTC had placed the conductor under suspension. On Wednesday, Mr. Ramakrishna met the Minister, expressed regret over the incident and apologised for his conduct. Taking the apology into account, Mr. Suresh instructed officials to revoke the suspension and reinstate him to duty, while cautioning him against repeating such behaviour. The Minister also instructed conductors and drivers to maintain patience and treat all passengers with courtesy, including women travelling under the State government’s Shakti free bus travel scheme.
He warned that any complaints of rude behaviour or harassment of passengers would invite strict disciplinary action against the concerned staff.
The BriefWire