The bustling Karaya area of Kolkata was rocked by two separate incidents of road rage within a span of 48 hours, highlighting growing tensions over traffic and public space. The violent altercations, one involving a deadly weapon and another an alleged firearm, have left residents concerned and police investigating.
Parking Dispute Escalates to Knife Attack
The first and more severe incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, around 4 am. According to the complaint, a 24-year-old youth named Md Salman, who lives on Pearl Road, was confronted by his neighbour, 28-year-old Md Sharar Ali, also known as Manne. The argument began over the parking of Salman's scooter, which Ali claimed was obstructing his movement and even tried to kick.
The initial spat was diffused by intervening neighbours. However, the situation turned dangerously violent later. Salman alleged that when he stepped out with a friend named Zilly, Ali reappeared armed with a knife and a pair of scissors. Ali then allegedly attacked Salman, inflicting multiple cuts on his body. A terrified Salman claimed in his police report that Ali's intention was to kill him during the assault.
Bus Driver Threatened with Firearm in Park Circus
Merely a day before this knife attack, another road rage episode unfolded in the nearby Park Circus area. Nirmal Saha, the driver of a bus plying on Route 37, reported a harrowing experience. Saha stated that a taxi came from the opposite direction, leading to a situation where both vehicles got stuck facing each other on the narrow road.
An argument ensued between Saha and the cab driver. The situation escalated rapidly when the taxi driver, according to Saha's complaint, pointed an object at him and ordered him to move his bus aside. Saha firmly believed the object was a firearm. Fearing for his life, he later reported the threat to the local police authorities.
Aftermath and Growing Concerns
These back-to-back incidents have put a spotlight on the deteriorating patience among commuters and residents in congested urban neighbourhoods. What began as trivial disputes—one over scooter parking and another over right of way—quickly spiraled into life-threatening situations.
Local law enforcement is now investigating both cases. The incidents serve as a grim reminder of how quickly road rage can turn violent in India's metropolitan cities. They underscore an urgent need for public awareness about anger management on roads and stricter enforcement of laws against carrying weapons and threatening behaviour.
