BENGALURU: There was high drama in front of Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) office in HSR Layout on Thursday morning when over 150 drivers staged a protest after a senior bus driver attempted suicide on being denied leave.
The incident happened reportedly after 8.30 am and the drivers withdrew the protest only after police intervention and assurance from BMTC authorities. Prakash Gowda, 47, a senior bus driver attached with Depot 29 HSR Layout, reportedly consumed poison around 8.30 am at the depot’s main gate. He was rushed to Victoria Hospital and later to Chethana hospital, where he is said to be out of danger, police said.
“BMTC authorities have been unfair to my husband, who has been serving for the last 15 years. Hence, he decided to kill himself in front of the BMTC office. My husband had appealed for leave for 15 days, but the higher ups refused to sanction it and marked him absent,” Gowda’s wife alleged.
According to the HSR Layout police, Prakash had approached his depot manager Reddy for sanctioning of leave and was asked to meet the divisional controller. Reddy reportedly also gave Prakash the letter and directed him to meet the senior officer today itself. Prakash left the office, but did not meet the divisional controller and consumed poison.
A large crowd gathered after Prakash collapsed and the jurisdictional police was called. Bus drivers along with Prakash’s wife and relatives held a protest alleging harassment by senior officials. “Prakash is undergoing treatment at a private hospital. No one has come forward to lodge a complaint. We are waiting for Prakash to recuperate following which his statement will be taken,” said an investigating officer.
The BMTC authorities have denied allegations made by Prakash. A BMTC official said Prakash was absent from work for 15 days. He had not sought leave nor informed anyone. As per the protocol we have to send a report to the seniors. When Prakash approached the depot manager he was asked to meet divisional controller about the issue, but he consumed poison at the depot’s main gate.” It may be recalled that it is the third such incident in the past ten days.
Previous incidents
- Nov 30: A driver attempted suicide by trying to immolate himself after the officials allegedly demanded bribe to make him a permanent staff in KSRTC.
- Nov 23: A 29-year-old KSRTC bus driver-cum-conductor allegedly committed suicide at his house in Dasarahalli alleging harassment from senior officials.
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