Udupi: One person was seriously injured in two separate incidents linked to disputes over bus timings, reported under the limits of the Udupi Town police station. The incidents, involving bus drivers and conductors, occurred at key bus stands in the city and have raised concerns over growing tensions among private bus staff.
The first incident resulted in grievous injuries to a bus driver following a violent altercation, while the second involved a public scuffle between bus crew members that disrupted commuters and required police intervention. Police have registered separate cases in connection with both incidents and launched further investigations.
Driver stabbed during argument over timings
According to the complaint, Riyaz (41), a driver of the Navadurga bus bearing registration number KA-20 AC-3467, is currently undergoing inpatient treatment at the Government District Hospital after sustaining serious injuries.
He stated that at around 5 pm, while he was present at the service bus stand, he entered into a verbal altercation over bus timings with Saddam, the driver of the Celina bus bearing registration number KA-20 AC-1097. The argument reportedly escalated when the accused allegedly abused Riyaz using filthy language and stabbed him near the left eye with a screwdriver.
Police said that when Riyaz attempted to flee from the spot to save himself, the accused allegedly chased him, waylaid him and stabbed him again with the screwdriver, allegedly with the intention to kill. The assault caused severe injuries, prompting immediate medical attention.
The complainant further alleged that the accused issued life threats, warning him to come to Mangaluru, where he would be “taken care of”. Based on the statement and medical evidence, police have registered a case and are searching for the accused.
Second incident creates panic at city bus stand
In a separate incident, a complaint was filed by Bharatesh Kankanawadi (43), a police sub-inspector, following a disturbance at the city bus stand. Police said information was received at around 11 am on January 23 about a quarrel between bus staff members over bus timings.
Acting on the information, the PSI along with other police personnel rushed to the spot. On inspection, it was found that a bus driver and a conductor were engaged in a heated argument, which soon escalated into physical aggression.
The duo allegedly abused each other using obscene language, pushed one another and created fear and commotion in a public place, causing inconvenience to passengers and commuters waiting at the bus stand.
Accused ignored police warning
Police stated that despite being warned by officers not to indulge in such behaviour, the accused continued their scuffle even in the presence of uniformed personnel. With the assistance of police staff, the individuals were detained and questioned on the spot.
During questioning, the first and second accused identified themselves as Vikhyath and Sharan, working as the driver and conductor of the Seema bus bearing registration number KA-20 B-4215. A third accused, Hemanth, stated that he is the conductor of the Tanveer bus bearing registration number KA-20 B-5448.
Police noted that the continued argument and physical altercation in a crowded public space posed a risk to public order and safety.
Police action and investigation
Cases have been registered at the Udupi Town police station in connection with both incidents. Police officials said appropriate sections of law have been invoked based on the nature of the offences and the evidence available.
Investigators are recording statements from witnesses, including other bus staff and commuters who were present at the time of the incidents. CCTV footage from the bus stand areas is also being examined to establish the sequence of events.
Concern over recurring disputes
Police officials expressed concern over recurring disputes among private bus staff, particularly over operational issues such as timings and routes. They warned that strict action would be taken against those resorting to violence or creating public nuisance.
Officials also urged bus operators and staff to resolve disputes through proper channels rather than taking the law into their own hands, stressing that such incidents endanger lives and disrupt public transport services.
Conclusion
The two incidents underline the need for stricter regulation and conflict resolution mechanisms within the private bus sector. While one case resulted in serious injuries, the other caused public disturbance, highlighting how routine operational disputes can quickly escalate into violence.
Police have assured that both cases will be investigated thoroughly and that necessary legal action will be taken against those found responsible.