A security staffer of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) was brutally assaulted by four passengers at the bustling Kempegowda Interchange Metro Station at Majestic on Sunday afternoon. The violence erupted after the staffer, identified as Indrajit, instructed the group to stand in a queue before boarding a Green Line train.
Violent Outburst Over Queue Discipline
The incident occurred around 12:45 pm on Platform 3 of the Green Line, which was crowded at the time. The four men, said to be from Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh and working at IT firms, had arrived at the platform intending to travel towards Madavara. As per standard procedure, Indrajit asked them to move to an empty space and form an orderly queue to board safely into the last coach upon the train's arrival.
Ignoring his instructions, the group missed the train that arrived at 12:47 pm. When the metro security personnel repeated his request for them to queue up for the next service, the situation turned violent. One of the accused allegedly slapped Indrajit seven times while verbally abusing him for enforcing the rule. Another passenger kicked the staffer during the assault.
Bystanders Intervene, Police Take Action
Metro staff immediately alerted the police. As the assailants tried to board the following train, two elderly commuters confronted them and physically prevented them from entering the coach in protest against the assault. Personnel from the Upparpet Police Station soon reached the platform and took all four men into custody.
Based on a complaint filed by Indrajit, the police have registered a First Information Report (FIR). A metro official highlighted the staffer's composure, stating, "Despite the attack, the metro security staffer stayed calm and reported the incident to his seniors." The official also expressed dismay that while many commuters witnessed the assault, no one initially came forward to help the staffer.
Aftermath and Broader Implications
The attack on a public servant enforcing basic civic rules has raised concerns about passenger behavior and safety for frontline metro staff. The BMRCL has reiterated its commitment to ensuring orderly boarding and the safety of its personnel. The incident underscores the challenges faced by security staff in managing crowds and enforcing regulations at one of Bengaluru's busiest transit hubs.
The case is now with the Upparpet police, who are investigating the charges against the four IT professionals. The metro corporation is likely to review security protocols for its staff on duty.
