Hubballi: The North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) has launched an investigation following allegations that a driver from the Hangal depot stopped a bus mid-journey to offer Namaz.
The alleged incident, which reportedly occurred on April 29, was captured on camera. A video and images showing the driver-cum-conductor offering Namaz while seated on a passenger seat have since gone viral on social media.
Speaking to HubbaliExpress.com, NWKRTC Managing Director Priyanga M confirmed that she was made aware of the incident on Wednesday night, and an inquiry has been ordered. “The driver-cum-conductor has been identified. He is a gold medalist driver. We are currently verifying the authenticity of the claim that he stopped the bus during its operation to pray,” she said.
“We expect the report either today or tomorrow. Action will be taken based on the findings. As of now, we are unsure of the exact time and location of the incident, or whether the bus was indeed stopped, causing inconvenience to passengers,” she added. “Everyone has the right to practice their faith, and we respect that. However, religious practices should not interfere with operational duties. We are examining all aspects of the incident.”
According to reports, the bus was traveling from Hangal to Vishalgad, though the exact location where the incident took place remains unclear.
