The Karnataka High Court on Monday refused to entertain a petition filed by a Bengaluru-based software engineer seeking to quash an attempt to murder case registered against him in a road rage incident.
Court underscores seriousness of road rage
While hearing the matter, Justice M Nagaprasanna made it clear that road rage incidents cannot be treated lightly, particularly in a city like Bengaluru where traffic congestion is a daily reality.
The Court strongly emphasised the need for patience among motorists, orally observing that individuals must learn to control their anger while on the road.
Incident and legal escalation
The case relates to an incident on October 26, 2025, when a couple and their child were travelling on a scooter from Tindlu towards Indiranagar. Near the MS Ramaiah Hospital signal, a car allegedly hit their vehicle from behind, causing them to fall.
Initially, police registered a case under provisions related to rash and negligent driving and endangering life, along with sections under the Motor Vehicles Act for failing to assist the injured and report the incident.
However, after the case was transferred to Sadashivnagar Police Station, a more serious charge under Section 109(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (attempt to murder) was invoked, significantly escalating the gravity of the case.
Court declines to intervene at this stage
Appearing for the petitioner, Advocate HM Gopal argued that the incident was purely accidental and lacked any intention to harm. He contended that invoking attempt to murder was excessive and unjustified.
The Court, however, declined to interfere, noting that such cases require thorough investigation and cannot be dismissed prematurely. It advised the petitioner to approach the Court again after the filing of the charge sheet.
Following this observation, the petitioner withdrew the plea, with liberty granted to reapply at a later stage if necessary.
Strong message on responsible driving
The case reinforces the judiciary’s strict stance on road rage and highlights the serious legal consequences that may arise from aggressive driving behaviour. It serves as a reminder for motorists to exercise restraint and responsibility on increasingly congested urban roads.