A photograph and video that allegedly show a traffic police sub-inspector (PSI) in Bengaluru making an obscene gesture during a confrontation with a biker went viral on social media on Friday, leading to a major controversy and conflicting accounts from both sides.
The Biker's Allegations of Harassment
According to the biker, identified as Mahendra, the incident occurred at a traffic signal in Devanahalli. Mahendra uploaded the content on social media platform X, naming the officer as PSI Shankarappa of the Devanahalli traffic police. He claimed his bike was stopped for alleged traffic violations. While he accepted the challan and stated he would pay the fine in court, he accused the PSI of misconduct.
Mahendra alleged that PSI Shankarappa snatched his bike key, used foul language, and asserted, "I am the only person who can let you go. Whatever fine I say, you will pay." When Mahendra questioned the procedure, he claimed the officer made him wait for three hours, threatened a fine of Rs 5,000, and showed him the middle finger. He stated he was only allowed to leave after paying an on-the-spot fine of Rs 3,000.
The Police Version: Violations and a Doctored Video
Traffic police officials presented a starkly different narrative. They stated that Mahendra was riding without both registration number plates and that his female pillion rider was not wearing a helmet. When PSI Shankarappa questioned him, Mahendra reportedly responded that it was a new bike and told the officer to question the company for delivering it without plates.
The police stated the PSI initially asked for a Rs 500 spot fine for the helmet violation and to let him go. However, Mahendra insisted on paying the fine in court. As the helmet rule attracts a spot fine, the argument escalated, and Mahendra began recording. Police maintain that the viral image was edited and that PSI Shankarappa informed the control room and called for Hoysala patrol support as the situation intensified.
Fines Imposed and Inquiry Initiated
According to the police, Mahendra was ultimately fined under three charges: Rs 500 for missing number plates, Rs 500 for the pillion rider without a helmet, and Rs 2,000 for misbehaving with a police officer. He was taken to the police station and released after paying the total fine of Rs 3,000. Officials emphasized that the entire interaction was recorded on PSI Shankarappa's body-worn camera.
In the wake of the controversy, a senior police officer confirmed that an explanation has been sought from PSI Shankarappa regarding the incident. The case highlights the tensions that can arise during traffic enforcement and the power of social media to amplify such disputes.
