Amid rising anger and viral footage of a shocking assault involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) officer and a civilian, the Karnataka High Court has stopped Bengaluru police from arresting Wing Commander Shiladitya Bose, accused of attempted murder.

Justice Hemanth Chandangoudar, on April 25, while hearing Bose’s plea to quash the case, instructed that the officer be summoned legally for inquiry and not detained. The court also directed Bose to fully assist the investigation.

This interim shield for Bose sparked further criticism over alleged bias favoring uniformed personnel. The controversy exploded after Bose claimed online he was attacked for not speaking Kannada. However, CCTV visuals revealed Bose repeatedly thrashing Vikas Kumar, a 36-year-old BPO employee, near Baiyappanahalli.

Following the uproar, pro-Kannada groups and Kumar’s family protested at the police station, accusing authorities of delay. They pointed out Kumar was swiftly arrested based on a complaint from Bose’s wife, a DRDO officer, whereas their FIR against Bose omitted key details.

Bose’s lawyers argued the FIR initially named “unknown persons,” but its contents were directed at him. Meanwhile, broader concerns have surfaced over military personnel allegedly enjoying unchecked privileges in civil disputes.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that the law must prevail, regardless of rank or position. Bose maintains he is wrongly accused, terming Kumar’s counter-complaint a retaliatory move. He also contested the “attempt to murder” charge, arguing the injuries caused were minor.

Kumar has since been released on station bail.

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